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| “Do not repay anyone evil for evil.” |
| —Romans 12:17 |
“Don’t get mad, get even!”
Getting even is a pretty well-defined tactic of our culture. In fact, over the past five years, getting even seems like it has risen to new heights as a tactic against anyone with whom one disagrees. Yet getting even does not square with the Apostle Paul’s instruction in Romans 12:17-21:
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Through the power of the risen Christ, which dwells within us by the enabling of the Holy Spirit, we can be overcomers. We can overcome evil and promote good. We have no obligation to fall into the same evil patterns that other individuals exhibit throughout our culture. In fact, we have a distinct responsibility to stand against this, and every other, evil practice.
We must determine to encourage a life pattern of forgiveness and reconciliation. While we retain the teachings of Jesus as the higher ground on which we stand, we must approach others—even those who try to harm us, even destroy us—with humility, kindness, and God’s forgiving love. This is an excellent plan. And, besides, God’s love for us compels us to do what pleases Him the most.
Originally posted on Friday, March 27, 2015
