How can we "bless those who persecute" us in daily interactions? The Scriptural Foundation “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” — Romans 12:14 What “Bless” Looks Like • Speak well of the person rather than rehearsing grievances • Wish for their good before God, not their downfall • Seek practical ways to promote their welfare Why Choose Blessing • Jesus commands it (Matthew 5:44) • It mirrors the Father’s kindness that leads people to repentance (Romans 2:4) • It keeps our own hearts free from bitterness (Ephesians 4:31-32) Practical Ways to Bless in Daily Moments • Greet them warmly—simple courtesy breaks ice and diffuses tension • Offer help when a genuine need appears (carrying a load, sharing notes, covering a shift) • Respond gently to harsh words; lower the volume rather than matching it (Proverbs 15:1) • Pray privately for their success, family, and salvation • Speak of them truthfully but charitably when they are not present • Send an encouraging text or note on a milestone—birthday, accomplishment, illness recovery • Refuse to spread stories that paint them in a bad light Guarding the Heart • Remember Christ’s example: “Father, forgive them” at the cross (Luke 23) • Recall your own past as an enemy reconciled by grace (Colossians 1:21-22) • Feed on Scripture daily; blessing flows from a renewed mind (Romans 12:2) Biblical Examples to Inspire • Joseph nourished the brothers who sold him (Genesis 45) • David spared Saul—twice—and spoke respectfully (1 Samuel 24, 26) • Stephen prayed for his executioners; Saul of Tarsus was among them (Acts 7) • Paul returned to strengthen churches that had doubted him (Acts 14-15) Living It Out Start small: choose one persecutor, speak one blessing, perform one quiet act of kindness. Repeat tomorrow. As obedience piles up, God’s love displaces resentment, and persecution becomes a platform for His glory. |
    |