Weekly Prayer: A prayer from John 15:18-25

Lord Jesus,

When this world spews words of hatred, help me remember that You chose me out of the world. You told Your disciples that if the world hated You, it would at times hate them because they belong to You. Even without a cause, they hated You. So when I am hated without a cause, uphold me and remind me that I am secure in You.

Guard my heart from fear, bitterness, and shame. Do not let the words of others define me, but let Your truth be louder than every accusation. 

And Father, forgive those who speak evil against me, just as Jesus prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" for those who crucified Him. Fill my heart with Your mercy so that I may bless instead of curse, pray instead of retaliate, and love instead of repay evil for evil.

Strengthen me to endure with grace, to remain faithful in every trial, and to reflect the character of Christ. May my life point others to You, even when I am misunderstood or opposed.