What If We Prayed Instead of Criticized?

Imagine if, every time we wanted to tear someone down, we prayed for them instead. Imagine if, before pointing out flaws, we spoke one word of life. Jesus said, “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:28). What if we actually did that?

The Ripple Effect

• On you: Your heart softens. Prayer turns frustration into compassion.

• On them: A kind word can break walls faster than judgment ever will. “A gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1).

• On society: Less cancel culture, more growth culture. People stop being enemies and start being works-in-progress.
  
  

What Would Change

• Schools and workplaces would feel safer.

• Cities would be less divided.

• Even leaders and governments could shift, because prayer invites God to move where our anger never could.

It’s not weakness - it’s strength. Jesus Himself prayed for His enemies on the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). That’s power.

Why Don’t We Do It?

We live in a world where criticism is instant and prayer feels slow. But the truth is, negativity never healed anyone. Only love does.

How to Start

• Pray first, then speak. One short prayer, one positive word.

• Share positivity. Grab free daily inspiration videos from SmartGuy® and drop them on your socials.

• Challenge friends. Make it a game: one prayer and one positive word for everyone you’d normally critique.
  
  

Final Thought

If we actually lived this way, we’d be unstoppable. Imagine thousands of young people flipping the script - turning criticism into blessing, tearing down walls of hate with words of life.

As Paul wrote: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).

That’s how you change your life - and maybe the world.