Pray verb (used with object)
1. to offer devout petition, praise, thanks, etc., to (God or an object of worship).
2. to offer (a prayer).
4. to make earnest petition to (a person).
5. to make petition or entreaty for; crave: She prayed his forgiveness.
Prey verb (used without object)
1. to seize and devour prey, as an animal does (usually followed by on or upon ): Foxes prey on rabbits.
2. to make raids or attacks for booty or plunder: The Vikings preyed on coastal settlements.
3. to exert a harmful or destructive influence: His worries preyed upon his mind.
4. to victimize another or others (usually followed by on or upon ): loan sharks that prey upon the poor.
Definitions taken from www.dictionary.com. Only certain definitions were included for emphasis.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 tells us to “Pray without ceasing.” But sadly, when it concerns other believers many have turned the word ‘pray’ to ‘prey’. Today and every day, I encourage you to be careful what you say about other believers when you don’t agree with them. Never ‘prey’ on them, but ‘pray’ for them.
“But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.” (Galatians 5:15 KJV)
God bless you!
Author, speaker, musician DEREK E. EURALES, Jr., loves to share his faith, motivation, and music. His book, Principles of Christian Living, has become a “must read” for believers of all ages. To order your copy, click here.