Giving Others the Benefit of the Doubt

As a mom, wife, sister, and employee, the need for God’s constant presence through prayer is inevitable and palpable. When I’m flustered by the day-to-day tasks of motherhood, it is then I turn my gaze upwards seeking the One from whom my help comes. When I feel alone or unheard, I turn to Him remembering that he always hears me. When I’m at crossroads with decision-making, I seek wisdom from His voice and His word. At the end of each day, no matter how it went, I’m grateful that I made it to the end of the day, with His help.

A Prayer for Giving Others the Benefit of the Doubt

Father, help me to believe the best of people. Help me not to live life as a victim, always thinking that someone is out to get me. Help me to understand that I’m worthy of love, kindness, and grace because You made me, love me, and died for me. 

As a recipient of your gifts of love, kindness, and grace, help me to extend these to others. Help me not to always think of myself first but to esteem others better than myself (Philippians 2:3). Help me to discern between an unintentional mistake and intentional hurt.

Those who intentionally hurt me have made their hearts known and I know you’ll provide wisdom for how to respond to my enemies. I pray also for those who aren’t my enemies, yet somehow they hurt me. Enemies or not, help me to see them as you see them – as image-bearers. 

Help me to remember what your Word says and to not keep score of hurts. Help me in love to bear all things, believe all things, hope all things, endure all things (1 Corinthians 13:7). When I have the choice to believe the good or the bad in others, help me to choose the good. Yes, Lord, this is especially hard for me, but I’m trusting you to change my heart (Psalms 51:10) and make it ever new so I can be like you.  As I am a recipient of your love and grace, may I pass this on to others.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

--Nylse

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Nylse is a Christian wife and a mother of four who loves life and inspiring others. She likes to have fun but is very clear on who she is and Whose she is. A prolific thinker, she blogs to encourage others from a Christian perspective at www.lifenotesencouragement.com. She can be found online on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.