Romans 12:17-21
Do not pay anyone back evil for evil. Focus on those things that everyone considers noble. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, maintain peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay,” says the Lord. But: If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. For by doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Applying God’s Word for Today: Trusting God to handle the problem!
When someone takes advantage of another, the victim feels violated, and their natural response is to seek revenge. However, through Paul, God encourages us to focus on what is noble and to maintain peace with everyone. Keeping peace is a tall order, especially when we’re angry. Paul’s words to the Romans seem to say, “Stop, and take a breath. God is on your side.”
God knows when we’ve been taken advantage of by others; He knows the pain and suffering we’ve endured. Instead of seeking revenge, God tells us to overcome evil with good. Let the guilt and shame of their actions work within them, leading them to repent and turn to God. If they reject God’s forgiveness, they will face His wrath and punishment. Vengeance belongs to God alone because only He knows what’s in the heart.
Those who hide and commit these injustices, God sees. May they turn from their sins so that God may show mercy and avoid the vengeance waiting for them. Christ died for all people, including those who victimize others, and He died for us— for all the times we, too, were deceitful, no matter how small or great. Jesus died to conquer all sins. Forgiveness is available to everyone because God does not desire the death of the wicked but hopes they will turn from their sins and live. This is good news—God does not want us to suffer eternal death, but He wants us to have eternal life, which comes through faith, trusting in Jesus’ forgiveness.
Dear Lord God, please forgive me for trying to take advantage of others and for not loving them as You would have me love them perfectly. Forgive those who have tried to take advantage of me, bless them with an understanding of Your love for them, and may they receive Your grace and mercy to be restored to You. Amen.
Stop and take a deep breath. Remember, God is with you; He is on your side through every situation, so let Him handle it.