During that period when I was working on digging up deep stuff in me so that I could forgive it, heal, and move forward, someone told me to pray blessings over those who hurt me. I will tell you honestly that I bucked against that. I flat-out did not want to do it. But as I worked through the deep ugly, Light was able to shine more fully into my soul, and the truth is you can’t pray for someone without being changed yourself. Below is one of my journal entries from that period. It shocks me still to see what God is able to do with a heart willing to change.
“Lord, let this beautiful sun shine today on those who hurt me. Let them feel warmth on their face and acknowledge you as the maker of all good things. Don’t let them contemplate the sun without also thinking of your Son, who gave his life so that you might shine Light into their lives.”
I encourage you, as I was encouraged by my friend, pray for those who hurt you. Matthew 5:44 💛