Posted on 11/22/2012 8:23:46 AM PST by SparkyBass
In a nutshell, imprecatory prayer derives from the Abrahamic covenant (Gen 12:1-3), the passage where God himself tells Abraham that he will curse anyone who curses him and his descendants (Gods children). When the psalmist or anyone else prays for God to judge people (even killing them), the basis is that the person praying is, in effect, asking God to remember this covenantal promise. The one praying is asking God to settle scores and judge evil oppressors. In other words, rather than taking matters into his own hands, the one praying leaves it to God to remember his promise. Jesus would not have asked David or another psalmist to repent for such a prayer, since the basis was Gods own covenant promise to avenge those who sought the harm of His own children.
(Excerpt) Read more at michaelsheiser.com ...
Excellent post.
Jesus taught us to pray for our enemies. Even while on the cross, Jesus asked the Father to forgive those who crucified Him, for they didn’t realize what they had done. Stephen, who was the first martyr asked God to forgive those who stoned him to death.
Pray for those who despise you. Jesus rebuked Peter when he wanted to call down judgment on another person. God will take care of those who come against Israel. He has ordained a time and place for their judgment.
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