How to Pray for Those with Whom We Disagree

Sometimes it's hard to pray for people, especially if we disagree with them, think they're wrong, or consider them an enemy. We read Jesus' words, "Love for your enemy and pray those who persecute you" (Mt. 5:44) and wonder how to do that. Below is a method.

The beginning of love is other-centeredness. Step one is to understand another's heart, mind, circumstances, and needs. Ask God for that understanding. Pray in light of what you've come to understand. Pray for them, Jesus said (not against them).

Total Person Filter:   What is going on for them?

Emotionally

Physically

Intellectually

Socially

Spiritually

Basic Psychological Needs filter: What are their human needs? 

Security

Love

Recognition 

New Experiences

Freedom from guilt and shame

Concept from The Lifestyle of Healthy Leaders: Integrating Spiritual Formation and Leadership Development, by Dr. Charles Miller (also titled: The Spiritual Formation of Leaders), summarized here by Doug Burford.