Sunday, May 2, 2010

116

Romans 12:17-21 (New King James Version)

Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Therefore
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.”

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."


It's a toughy - when you've really got to live this one out. It's easy to believe and obey this jam packed message when you're not knee deep in a situation that gives you every right and reason to pray that someone gets run over by a truck, or at least never succeeds in what they're doing. This message is being screamed at me right now, so much so, it's funny.

It's pretty clear what the deal is, so I just want to encourage you to pray for the people that have hurt and abused you. When you're hit where it hurts the most and you almost can't breathe cause you're in so much shock, catch your breath, and from somewhere deep inside of you, pray for that soul. The best news of this whole scripture is that God says He will take care of you - He has your back. He is a God of justice. If you take your own revenge, there is no room for the wrath of God. The wrath of God... yowza! God have mercy on the one that hurts a child of the King. God help the soul that dares to rip off, steal from, or deceitfully deal with the one whom Jesus adores . . . that is, you. Their day is coming, I promise. When you've done all you can to be at peace with the enemy you're facing, leave it to God. Leave it be.

So as far as you go, live at peace with all men. This may mean distance or it may mean begging for God's grace because He has called you to stay up close and personal in their lives and well being. Pray that the person who stole from you and took what you rightfully deserve succeeds in the work they are doing and the relationships they are involved in.

Do this, and I promise you, you will be free.

I've got to give you this version also, because (as usual) Eugene Peterson sums it up beautifully:
Romans 12:17-21 (The Message)
Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you've got it in you, get along with everybody. Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. "I'll do the judging," says God. "I'll take care of it."
Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.

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