Healing Family Relationships Through PrayerSample

When we conflict with someone, the last thing in the world we want to do is pray for God to bless them. If we are going to pray for them, we are more inclined to echo some of David's prayers in the Psalms as he calls on God to smite his enemies!

When my wife and I are trapped in an argument, I don't naturally pray for God to bless her; I pray for God to fix her: "God, help my wife to understand my perspective on this;" "Help her with her anger and frustration;" "Help her communicate in a more positive way with me." There is nothing wrong with a prayer like this, but it is not the place to start. I need to start by following Jesus' instruction to pray for God to bless her.

Are you ready to try a "blessing prayer" for one of your family members? Consider using this pattern as a guide:

"Lord, I confess that it is not easy to pray for _______. But I want to be obedient to Jesus and pray even for those who are mistreating me. So, I pray for _______ and ask that you bless him/her. Bless him/her with your presence, your power, and your grace. Bless every area of his/her life."

There are two powerful results from this prayer approach. First, it softens your heart toward your family member. Second, as God answers your prayer and brings His blessing into their life, that answered prayer can only have a positive effect on your relationship.

Reflection Question: Who in your family is most difficult for you to pray blessings over right now? What specific blessing can you ask God to give them?