Holy Spirit of God, help me bless those who persecute me…

www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2012%3A14-21&version=RSVCE
‘Thank goodness I don’t have any persecutors.  I don’t live in Gaza or Ethiopia or the Ukraine, thanks be to God! But wait… what about the two staff members refusing to communicate with me civilly, let alone with respect; or household members who ‘forget’ to help with housework and expenses; or the websites and government agencies that seem to be designed to hinder rather than help…? In my perception, I can begin to treat these as ‘persecutors’ and so enter into a them versus me narrative – and curse rather than bless.  But when I behold other people, or even arms length digital or government entities in prayer, I realize that it is much more ‘human’ (i.e. Designer style - God’s style)  to bless – and give thanks for – the very individuals and forces around me. Blessing them allows me the opportunity to practice God’s love and mercy myself, in heart, mind, soul and strength, keeping me healthy and whole. And letting thanks (that is really trust in God) inform that blessing extends and releases God’s love and mercy to the people I am connected with as well as the ribs of society that are keeping the social machine upright. This allows God’s grace to flow and transform hearts and systems alike. Whether I am in the midst of worldly war or working my way through the one-on-one spiritual battle grounds Jesus knew so well, it is always good and right to bless, not curse, those who persecute me.  Holy Spirit of God, help me bless those who persecute me.
 
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? … I believe I shall see the goodness of God in the land of the living.  (Psalm 27:13)
Do not be overcome by evil; overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:21)
 
If God sends us on stony paths, he provides strong shoes.
Corrie Ten Boom
 
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