What does the Bible say about praying for our enemies?

In Matthew 5:44, Jesus instructs us to pray for those who persecute us, highlighting the need for compassion and mercy in the face of adversities. However, Psalm 35 presents a different perspective as it articulates a plea for divine justice against enemies. It reveals the tension between the righteous indignation toward oppression and the call to forgive. Jesus embodied this duality; as He prayed for His enemies, He also affirmed God's right to judge. The psalm reminds us of the reality of spiritual warfare while emphasizing that vengeance belongs to the Lord.