How can we pray for those who "wink the eye" at our distress? Key Verse “Do not let my enemies gloat over me without cause, nor those who hate me without reason wink the eye.” (Psalm 35:19) What “Winking the Eye” Signals • A calculated gesture of contempt or mockery (Proverbs 10:10; 16:30). • A heart posture of hidden malice—celebrating another’s pain while pretending innocence. • David names it so that the offense is brought into the open before God. Praying as David Did • Appeal to God’s justice – “Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me.” (Psalm 35:1) – Ask the Lord to halt schemes that deepen your distress (Psalm 35:4–8). • Guard your own heart – “Search me, O God, and know my heart.” (Psalm 139:23) – Refuse to let bitterness take root (Ephesians 4:31). • Intercede for the offender – “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:28) – Request conviction leading to repentance (2 Timothy 2:25–26). • Seek God’s vindication, not personal revenge – “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19) – Trust Him to uphold truth and restore honor in His timing (1 Peter 5:6). Practical Ways to Pray 1. Name the wrong honestly before God, as David does. 2. Surrender the desire to retaliate; ask for a spirit of mercy (Matthew 5:44). 3. Pray that the mocker’s eyes be opened to Christ’s grace (Acts 26:18). 4. Ask the Spirit to keep your words gentle and your witness bright (1 Peter 3:9). 5. Thank God in advance for working all things for good (Romans 8:28). When Prayer Feels Hard • Recall Jesus’ model: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34) • Lean on the Spirit’s help: “The Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans too deep for words.” (Romans 8:26). • Share the burden with trusted believers who will stand with you (Galatians 6:2). Promises to Hold Onto • God sees every injustice (Proverbs 15:3). • He delivers the afflicted who cry out to Him (Psalm 34:17). • He turns hearts—even those set against Him (Proverbs 21:1). • He will bring perfect justice in the end (Revelation 20:12). Closing Thoughts Praying for those who “wink the eye” at our distress is neither naïve nor passive. It entrusts the offense to the One who judges rightly while asking Him to work redemptively in every heart involved—ours included. |
    |