This is probably the hardest of this short series of posts. It has to do with the way to treat those who bring pain, hardship, and difficulty into our lives. I believe God has given Christians… in His Word… how to conduct themselves, especially in the midst of difficult situations. Consider the Scripture…
Matthew 5:38 You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. 41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.
Romans 12:14 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 peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Ephesians 4:30 Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. 32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Seriously? Treat enemies… those who lie about us… those who seek to harm us… and those who attack us that way?
The answer to those questions are… Yes. After all, Jesus did say (Paraphrased), “Before you decide to follow Me think carefully about what I require. If you can’t or won’t do what I require, do not call yourself one of My disciples because in reality you aren’t.”
There is great freedom and blessing to not resisting an evil person (Or group)… turning your cheek after an insult… giving what is asked… blessing those who persecute you… not taking revenge… helping your enemy… and being kind in all things at all times.
There are times when it honors God to take a black eye rather than give one. There are times it is best to be the one who “loses” so that a greater good (God’s honor & glory) are protected. There are times when you should do what others think is foolish, weak, or stupid so that when you stand before God He will say, “Well done good and faithful servant!”
As it is written in Romans 12:14, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”