Title: How Believers Should Relate to Enemies
Text:
Romans 12:17 (HCSB)
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Try to do what is honorable in everyone’s eyes.
Observation:
You cannot escape evil in this world. However, Christ followers should resist the urge to pay back in kind the evil done to you. In fact you can expect evil directed toward you by some people because you are a Christ follower. The Bible says:
2 Timothy 3:12 (HCSB)
In fact, all those who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
The Apostle Paul admonishes us, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil”. That is our high calling as Christ followers. The Apostle Peter had a similar message.
1 Peter 3:9 (HCSB)
not paying back evil for evil or insult for insult but, on the contrary, giving a blessing, since you were called for this, so that you can inherit a blessing.
This teaching by Paul and Peter was what Jesus taught them; it’s the best way, it is God’s way. It’s not an easy way, but the blessings make the journey worth the effort.
Matthew 5:39 (HCSB)
But I tell you, don’t resist an evildoer. On the contrary, if anyone slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.
The best place for our enemies and evil people is in the hands of the Lord. I am so aware that I never know the whole story. My responsibility is to do the part that I can control, and leave the rest in the hands of the Lord.
Romans 12:18 (NLT)
Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.
Our privilege is to do the will of God; that is the pathway to living a godly life, a life that will bless others, and be a blessing to you.
Prayer:
Father God, we know that it is impossible to get through life in this world without some people not liking who we are, and what we do. Father, as much as it depends upon us, give Your people the grace to live godly and fruitful lives for our own good, and for Your glory. In the mighty name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
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Matthew 4:4 (HCSB)
4 But He answered, “It is written: Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
Psalm 2:8 (HCSB)
8 Ask of Me, and I will make the nations Your inheritance and the ends of the earth Your possession.
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