People hurt. But prayer works.

Every one of us knows what it feels like to be hurt by someone. Sometimes the pain is small and seemingly insignificant. Other times, it comes through betrayal, rejection, mistreatment, abuse, lies, or injustice. And when someone hurts us, our natural response is often to hurt them back.

But Jesus gives us a radically different way to respond. In Luke 6:27–36, Jesus says, “Love your enemies… bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”

That command isn't easy. But Jesus didn't simply teach us to pray for those who hurt us—He demonstrated it. While hanging on the cross, surrounded by people who had betrayed, mocked, beaten, and crucified Him, Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them.”