One of my favorite places to do ministry is a Senior Living facility. There is assisted living at this facility, but most are in Independent Living. I do a Bible Study there about twice a month with the folks who live there and it is a true joy.  On one morning, there was a woman who repeatedly said, “We must pray for all people – even the ones who do evil things.”  No doubt, she had this on her mind.  The thing is, she is absolutely right! When we pray, we tend to want to focus on the ones that we love – to ask for healing, peace, and grace. It is difficult to pray for those who are hard to love, who hurt others – and even kill others. However, we are called to love our enemies, even though it is the hardest thing in the world to do.

 It is said in 2 Kings 17:1-18, “The people secretly did things that were not right…They built for themselves high places at all their towns, from watchdtower to fortified city…they did wicked things…they served idols.”  God told them, “You shall not do this…Turn from your evil ways and keep my commandments and my statues.”  But they did not listen and were stubborn.  They rejected the commandments and did not believe.  God removed them out of His sight (v.18).

Those who were evil – God removed them out of His sight! Does this mean that God sent them straight to hell so that they are removed from his sight? I believe it could indeed mean that! These people need prayers! Here is the thing…it is no better today than it was 1000’s of years ago.  Human nature has not changed one bit.  Only God can do the impossible and change the hearts of those who do wicked and evil things.  We cannot change others, but God can.

We must pray for all people – even the ones who do evil things.

Let us pray right now for those who are evil in the sight of the Lord…God of all possibilities, only You can change the hearts of those who are so evil.  We ask that you find a way into their lives and into their hearts.  Use us as your voice and give us the courage to speak out in your name.  Amen.