Nehemiah had them. When he was rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, his enemies mocked him, spread rumours, and tried to lure him to a meeting to harm him. His answer is classic: “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down.” He didn’t argue. He kept building.
Historical Context
Jesus raised the bar further. He didn’t just say to ignore enemies, but to pray for them. That’s hard, but it frees you. You can’t hate someone and sincerely pray for their good at the same time for very long.
A Prayer for Haters
Lord, you know who is against me and what they’ve said.
It hurts.
Help me hear any truth in their criticism, and let go of the rest.
Keep me from bitterness and revenge.
I choose to bless them, even if I don’t feel like it:
heal whatever in them makes them want to tear others down.
And help me keep doing the work you’ve given me.
Amen.
When Criticism Hurts
Lord, their words keep replaying in my head.
Let your voice be louder than theirs.
Amen.
The Nehemiah Prayer
Lord, I’m doing a great work and I can’t come down.
Strengthen my hands.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- After harsh criticism or gossip.
- When tempted to respond online.
- When jealousy or opposition threatens to stop you.
Scripture Connection
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” — Matthew 5:44
Jesus gives four actions for dealing with haters: love, bless, do good, pray. None of them is “win the argument.”
Related prayers
For anger, see the Prayer to Remove the Spirit of Anger. For justice, the Prayer for Karma. For confidence, the Self-Love Prayer.