It is extremely easy to pray for those in our families, our friends, and for ourselves.

However, it is a whole new ballgame when we realize that Jesus called us not only to pray for those who we like but also for our enemies. He even goes as far as to say to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. This means the bullies, the evil leaders, the harsh coworkers, the rough family members, and the most terrible of people can be prayed for in the power of Jesus.

Who do you feel is your enemy today? Who in your life is overwhelmingly discouraging or wrong to you? Jesus is not saying that we should be victimized and abused, so please set healthy boundaries in place. He is, however, saying that we are called to pray for those who are difficult and hurtful. We cannot do this on our own, but with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can have true strength to pray over those who seem the furthest away from Christ.

Dr. Capps is the OIC (Maj) of Chaplain Services and Chief Psychological Officer of the VDF Chaplain Corps Psychological Resources Program. He also owns and operates Capps Christian Counseling LLC. since 2009. Dr. Capps holds a PhD. in Clinical Pastoral Counseling, a Doctorate in Christian Education, Advanced certification in Crisis and Abuse counseling and has extensive experience with trauma, PTSD, PTS, Cumulative stress, complex trauma, and crisis and abuse counseling. He has faithfully served with the USN, and the Virginia Defense Force. He is responsible for the creation of the VDF Mental Health Initiative, and the standing up of the Psychological Health Resources Program.