21 DECEMBER

GIVE BACK BLESSING

“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary,
 repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”

 (1 Peter 3:9, NIV)

“Do me, I do you; God no go vex” and “an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth” are common phrases in our fallen world. The natural man desires to hit back at those who hurt him, either verbally, physically or emotionally. It may be difficult not to do so but it is possible.

Strong-willed and impulsive Peter learnt the hard way and so submitted himself to be changed by the Holy Spirit into a tender and humble servant leader in the Early Church. Are we not often tempted to return insult with insult, even if indirectly or in subtle ways – as if we are just stating facts but with the aim of hurting the other person?

Revenge is outright disobedience to God. Our Lord says that vengeance is His. Taking revenge is taking God’s prerogative and work out of His hands. This implies that we think we can handle the issue better than God. Of course not!

How then do we repay evil with blessing, as Christ taught and Peter exhorts? By praying for those who hurt us – not that God will take vengeance for us, but that they may repent and receive God’s mercy; for God does not delight in the death of a sinner.

For this obedience, there is a blessing to inherit. Wow! Spiritual blessings, physical blessings, peace of mind, justification, pardon for our own sins and errors, and eternal life with Christ Jesus.

ACTION: No matter how difficult, determine not to take revenge, in word or action.
PRAYER: Grant us grace, Oh Lord, to pray rather than to repay.