Romans 12:17
Repay no one evil for evil, but take thought for what is honest, and proper and noble, aiming to be above reproach in the sight of everyone. – Romans 12:17
Unfortunately, this is the opposite of what we see in this world. We live in a world where real love does not exist. It’s all about self.
Real love is self-LESS.
Let me give a practical example of this Scripture in action:
You are having one of those days with your husband…you know…the kind of day where one wrong word and there could be a fight. We have ALL had them I am sure…
Well, let’s say that you’re the one that triggers the bomb, and your husband explodes. He says something without thinking, and hurts your feelings.
You have two options…you could bite back (NOT recommended!)...or you could really create a shock wave and apologize for whatever triggered the response. EVEN if it really wasn’t “apology worthy.” EEEK! LOL!
The point is to show character and replace the wrong
(no matter who did the wrong) with LOVE.
This is NO EASY task.
Honestly, there are days my flesh would love to get in a ring with my husband for just five minutes. However, I know that the only thing that will produce is more rotten fruit and more fighting.
On the flip side, when I extend UNDESERVED grace, love, and mercy towards him, it almost always cools the fire. Doesn’t God show us this same UNDESERVED grace, love, and mercy EVERY day?
When we let our flesh die, and submit to God’s ways, it WILL ALWAYS turn out better. Even when we do not see an immediate manifestation of our obedience…it IS working!!
So, the next time your husband, friend, or beloved child sends you…Do what will put a smile on your Daddy’s Face…LOVE ‘EM!
Let’s Pray,
Daddy God, thank You for Your UNDESERVED Grace, Love, and Mercy. Thank You for always looking past my imperfections and focusing on the positive. Help me to show that same character towards others. Help me to NEVER repay a wrong. Help me to always take the high road even when I may be right. Help me to learn to not need to be right. Thank YOU!!! In Jesus Mighty Name, Amen.
In His Love and Service,
Lara ;)
Copyright © Lara Velez, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved
I needed to read this this morning… Mainly because It seems like I have to deal with people on a daily basis that are ‘two faced’ and ‘backstabbers’…Im the type of person that just wants everyone to get along (like god would want :) Its hard when people are nice to your face and you know as soon as you turn your back… I need to remember to love them anyways and kill them with kindness I guess. Is there a bible verse about people like this?
I’ve really enjoyed the reading about not repaying evil to anyone. I’m often facing opposition on the home, at work , and just life sometimes, but God is maturing me and things that use to bother me he’s gradually taking the desire to get back at someone away. I really appreciate Moms of Faith from the bottom of my heart. Thank you !