In the culture in which we live we hear the expression “pay back” meaning returning to that person what they did to you. Is this the best way to resolve an issue? What would happen in our world if there was just a continuous circle of payback? What would happen if we would overcome evil with good? Wouldn’t this be a better world?
One of the most important things we need to learn is how to trust God and walk by faith when people don’t treat us the way they should. Our natural response is to get angry when we’re mistreated. But God’s Word reminds us that we shouldn’t return evil for evil or anger for anger. The Lord is our model of not paying us back for what we deserve because of our sin. Romans 6:23For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. [1] Amazing. When we turn to Jesus in faith, we receive mercy and the goodness of God!
David Overcame Evil with Good
King Saul was trying to kill David, but David responded in mercy when he had an opportunity to kill Saul. 1 Samuel 24:10 This very day you can see with your own eyes it isn’t true. For the Lord placed you at my mercy back there in the cave. Some of my men told me to kill you, but I spared you. For I said, ‘I will never harm the king—he is the Lord’s anointed one.’[2]
We Can Overcome Evil with Good
Our Lord Jesus is the model for to overcome evil with good. Take time to meditate on what Paul wrote. Romans 2:4Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? [3]
This is how the Lord wants us to respond and we can with His help. One of the best things we can do is learn how to pray for the people we’re mad at. The first thing to do when somebody mistreats you is pray, “God, this hurts and I’m angry about it, but I know my anger won’t solve the problem or change the person. So, I trust You. I’m going to choose to be kind.”
Make a decision today that you’re going to refuse to live angry. Ask God to help you take control of your feelings. And if you do act out in anger, confess it, and God will forgive you. There will be a lot of battles in life, but God has an amazing plan for you! As you put your focus on Him as your heavenly Father, it becomes easier and easier to conquer angry feelings and walk in peace. And you will be a blessing as you overcome evil with good!
Romans 12:17 Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. 18 Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. 19 Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God.[4]
To hear more about overcoming evil with good, listen here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/faith-makes-a-difference-david
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.