View Blog Entry

“I’ll get him back if it’s the last thing I ever do,” the woman said. For weeks, she spent all her time plotting her revenge—and making sure everyone knew about it.

When someone hurts or mistreats us, our flesh wants to retaliate ... to fight back. Coming at them like the proverbial bull in a china shop is a natural, carnal response. But as God’s children and His representatives in this world, He expects a different response. While we might feel compelled to verbally attack them, discredit them, and make them suffer, we actually become the one who suffers.

I’ve always paid close attention to the Scripture that says we should not repay evil for evil, and I love the way the Message puts it: 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.”

One writer says that when we try to avenge ourselves, we violate God’s Word. When we attempt to repay evil for evil, it will never bring satisfaction. Instead, it opens the door for guilt and condemnation to creep in and steal our peace. It will keep us angry and totally miserable.

God tells us to forgive. To turn the other cheek. To love and pray for our enemies. To cast our care on Him and let Him handle the outcome. It’s not always easy, but it’s so worth the effort.

If someone has betrayed you and you want to get back at them, ask yourself, “Is it really worth it?”