Resisting Revenge!

When we have been wronged our first tendency is generally to react by lashing back. We may struggle with controlling the strong desire to even the score. However, in such situations, seldom does the score ever come out even.

Paul exhorted…
“Beloved, NEVER AVENGE YOURSELVES, but LEAVE IT TO the wrath of GOD, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mind, I will repay, says the Lord.’” ( Romans 12:19 ESV)

Jesus provided us with the example of carrying out this principle. (note 1 Peter 2:23) Remember we have been called to be like Him by following in His steps. ( 1 Peter 2:21) How well are we doing in this area of our life?

Why does God encourage us away from taking vengeance? Why does His Word exhort us to leave such in His hands? I think one important reason is that we often don’t know where to draw the line. Most often when vengeance is taken on others it does not tend to be tit for tat, but rather going beyond anything that might be consider of equal measure. This frequently results in merely escalating the tensions of the situation rather than working toward any resolution.

Prior to the verse quoted above, note OUR ACTIONS Paul exhorted toward.
“(14) BLESS those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. (15) Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. (16) LIVE IN HARMONY with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be conceited. (17) Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to DO WHAT IS HONORABLE IN THE SIGHT OF ALL. (18) If possible, so far as it depends on you, LIVE PEACEABLE with all.” ( Romans 12:14-18 ESV)

Instead of taking vengeance, the ACTION we are called to take is that of blessing even those who would persecute us. Instead of repaying evil with evil (fighting fire with fire) we are to act honorably. Harmony and peace, as far as we can make it possible, is to be our goal with others. Paul went on further to exhort even the feeding and giving drink to an enemy ( Romans 12:20) rather than taking vengeance upon them. All this is certainly contrary to the ways of the world. It may also be contrary to the feelings experienced in such situations; feelings which must be kept under control. Nevertheless, it is the Will of God to be followed in our life.

Paul’s final exhortation in this passage was with regard to overcoming evil with good. ( Romans 12:21). Do we recognize the great power there is in doing good as opposed to taking vengeance? It is not our place to seek revenge. OUR ACTIONS are to always do good. In this way we stand the chance of ultimately bringing peace in the situation. May we continually seek God’s help to maintain control as we leave such situations in His hands.

Have a great day EXERCISING THE POWER OF GOOD!
Carl

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