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GOOD FOR EVIL
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18
1 Thessalonians 5:15

Romans 12:17-21

 

“…none render evil for evil

unto any man…”

 

GOOD FOR EVIL
 
When we are on the receiving end of wicked deeds, the natural tendency is to fight back, to seek justice for the wrongs that have been committed against us. This thirst for vengeance is common, yet it is something the Bible continually exhorts us to put aside, for such a desire for revenge is sinful.
 
The exhortation here is very similar to Paul’s instructions in Romans 12:19-21: “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” The message here is clear – we are not, in any circumstance, to try to seek vengeance on our own. This is God’s domain. He knows how to judge.
 
Because of sin, there will always be evil in this world, and there will be times that we are at the receiving end of it. We cannot control what people do to us, but we can control our reaction to them. Will we lash out in a hot temper and do or say things that we will regret later? Will our mouths shoot forth an unpleasant word, or make a rash decision that is no better than the evil that is done against us? Will our thirst for revenge lead us to return evil for evil? What sort of testimony are we bearing for the Lord if this is how we react?
 
Instead, let us follow after that which is good, not just amongst ourselves, but towards all men. As Christians, we carry Christ’s name. Our duty is to show forth a consistent testimony of Christlikeness in all our dealings with men. The next time someone offends you, take a moment to consider your actions, to be slow to speak, slow to wrath (James 1:19). Remember the exhortations of Christ to turn the other cheek and go the extra mile (Matt 5:38-42). Instead of reacting with anger, have compassion and love. Be willing to forgive, as Christ has forgiven us.
 
THOUGHT: Christ rendered good to me, I must do the same to others.
PRAYER: Father, may Thou grant me a heart of compassion and forgiveness.

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