Vengeance
When we are hurt by another person, the first temptation is to strike back at that person. It is a selfish reaction. It is linked to pride. There is an element of anger most of the time. We tend to think that their actions make it right for us to get even. All of this plays into vengeance, and all of it is sinful.
The Bible is clear. God said, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay." Jesus said to turn the other cheek. Paul said to leave vengeance to the Lord, because He is the only perfect judge, and He always does the right thing at the right time. However, these admonitions go against our natural feelings and our human nature. It is very difficult to trust the Lord to stand up for us, but it is the best way.
Now, I want to make it clear that God does not oppose protecting ourselves and our families from harm. That is not the intent of these teachings. The reason we are not to take vengeance is that we will end up doing the wrong thing in selfishness, pride, or anger. We can be wise. We can stay away from those who hurt us, so they will not do further harm. All the while we are to pray for them. Jesus loves them, and we should show them that love, too. Just as Jesus forgave us, we can forgive them. Then, we wait for them to realize their sin and repent, so we can be reconciled. That doesn't always happen, but it is the best outcome.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Acts 5-7.
The Bible is clear. God said, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay." Jesus said to turn the other cheek. Paul said to leave vengeance to the Lord, because He is the only perfect judge, and He always does the right thing at the right time. However, these admonitions go against our natural feelings and our human nature. It is very difficult to trust the Lord to stand up for us, but it is the best way.
Now, I want to make it clear that God does not oppose protecting ourselves and our families from harm. That is not the intent of these teachings. The reason we are not to take vengeance is that we will end up doing the wrong thing in selfishness, pride, or anger. We can be wise. We can stay away from those who hurt us, so they will not do further harm. All the while we are to pray for them. Jesus loves them, and we should show them that love, too. Just as Jesus forgave us, we can forgive them. Then, we wait for them to realize their sin and repent, so we can be reconciled. That doesn't always happen, but it is the best outcome.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Acts 5-7.