Today’s Scriptural Arsenal (SA) is best enjoyed whilst listening to the song “Forgiveness” by TobyMac.
Revenge is a natural human emotion that arises when we feel wronged or hurt by someone. It can feel like the only way to get justice or make the other person suffer as we have. However, revenge is not the answer; it often leads to more pain and suffering for everyone involved.
Living in a world where hate and bigotry are the order of the day usually makes it look like revenge is a way of looking out for oneself and proving that one is not a fool, but that’s not what God wants us to do. God knows there will be times when people will hurt us, whether deliberately or not. But as His children and the apple of His eyes, He expects us not to pay back evil or insult for insult. Instead, bless because to this we were called so that we may inherit a blessing.
As Christians, we are called to a higher standard of behaviour. In 1 Peter 3:9, we are instructed to “not repay evil for evil or insult for insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
This verse reminds us that revenge is not our place. We are not called to seek vengeance but to trust that God will handle justice in His way and timing. Instead of seeking revenge, we are to bless those who have wronged us, to show them kindness and love even when it’s complicated.
You remembered the story of Joseph, betrayed by his brothers and sold as a slave to a foreign land, where he rose to power using his gift of interpreting dreams. When his brothers came to him seeking help during a famine, he forgave them, despite the opportunity for revenge. Joseph’s story teaches us a lesson in forgiveness and extending grace to those who have wronged us. Despite the difficult circumstances, the young man did not lose his faith or gift, using it to help others in need. His story shows us that we can choose to forgive instead of seeking retribution.
By choosing not to seek revenge, we free ourselves from anger, bitterness, and hatred. Instead, we can focus on healing and moving forward. We can forgive those who have wronged us and find peace in knowing we have done what God has called us to do.
Seeking not to revenge may sometimes look challenging, but not for us who have the Spirit of God and are conscious to obey and do according to his word.
Moreover, when we bless those who have wronged us, we demonstrate the love of Christ to them. We show them a better way of living, a way that is marked by love, forgiveness, and grace. We may even be able to lead them to Christ through our actions.
It’s important to note that choosing not to seek revenge does not mean we condone or ignore the wrong that has been done. It means we trust God to handle justice and focus on our behaviour and response.
In closing, the call to “not repay evil for evil or insult for insult” is difficult but essential for our spiritual growth and well-being. By choosing to bless those who have wronged us, we show the love of Christ, free ourselves from anger and bitterness, and trust that God will handle justice in His way and his timing. Let us all strive to live by this verse and to forgive as we have been forgiven.
If SA ministers to you or you know someone, it will help; click the share button!
Today’s Scriptural Arsenal (SA) for Daily Living will end here, but note that Scriptural Arsenal (SA) will only do something once you put it to use. Remember that ONLY the Doers are glorified, but how can you be if you have not studied?
