“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” (Romans 12:14)
By Steve McShane
My wife and I decided to combine households with my in-laws, and we all agreed that daily prayer at the jobsite was crucial. We selected a contractor who prayed over his bid with us and this practice carried throughout the entire job.
The most incredible aspect to the morning prayer was how sub-contractors were drawn in. The prayers were offered in both English and Spanish and opened the door to new believers and believers who had not been to church in years. It was a reminder of how one small act can have far-reaching impacts.
I was personally moved to pray for those working against us. One neighbor called the authorities on us several times. On one occasion, I had to leave work only to find everyone was chased away, and we were on the hook for $3,000 worth of concrete.
The more I prayed about the situation, the more I was drawn to this particularly difficult neighbor. As I got to know her situation, I found out she was estranged from her children and lost both a son and husband much too early. I realized I had no idea how much pain she was experiencing. My prayers changed to focus more on her pain and less on the inconveniences to the job. Even my general contractor began to pray for her.
Her reports and negativity ceased even as the job got dustier and louder. Her communication with me softened as well.
My study of prayer for those working against us has brought to light an entire community that needs God’s love. This is particularly true in our workplaces, where a coworker who seems set against us is actually in need of God’s love. Turning the tables to pray for them, learn more about them, and see things from their perspective could be the blessing we all need.
Pray
Lord, help me to pray for those that seem to want to hurt me. Help me to love them.
Reflect
How do I usually respond to folks that are negative toward me, and what can I do differently to engage the Holy Spirit?
Discuss
What steps can I take today to tune into and act on those that are negative around me?
Steve McShane is president of the WorkLight Monterey Chapter. He is past president of the WorkLight Salinas Valley Chapter. He serves as director of development for The Bridge Restoration Ministry.