Assisting someone who hurt you can bring healing as we see the other person through the lens of Christ. When someone hurts us, it is a two-pronged attack by the enemy. The first part of the attack is the wounding, and the second is far more deceptive and consequential. This is the temptation to become bitter.
Bitterness is like a poison we must rid ourselves of before it does too much damage. Unfortunately, no one is immune from the danger of bitterness. The good news is that Christ can free us from bitterness. Paul gives us Godly advice. Ephesians 4:31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. [1] It is only through God’s strength we can forgive!
Loving Others
Some of the deepest hurts we experience in life often come from those who are closest to us. When Abram and Lot returned to Canaan after spending time in Egypt because of the drought, they were rich in flocks of sheep, goats, and herds of cattle. Unfortunately, the land could not support both parties, and conflict soon arose between their herdsmen.
Genesis 14:8 Finally Abram said to Lot, “Let’s not allow this conflict to come between us or our herdsmen. After all, we are close relatives! 9 The whole countryside is open to you. Take your choice of any section of the land you want, and we will separate.[2] Abram was generous and could have made the first choice, but trusted God to supply.
Lot chose the land of the Jordan that looked best in the world’s sense. When victorious invaders captured Lot, Abram responded by gathering 318 trained men in his household to rescue him. Abram could have been bitter and chosen to let Lot pay for his decision. Instead, Abram demonstrated unconditional love for his nephew.
Jesus’ Unconditional Love for Us
Even though Lot had not treated Abram well, Abram continued to act out of love. This is a model of what God does for us. God’s word teaches us that His love for us is unconditional. This is a love not based on our actions or circumstances but on love. Romans 5:8But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.[3]
Some people think they are beyond God’s love because of what they have done, but this is a lie. When we humble ourselves and repent of our sins, the Lord receives us back in His loving arms. Hebrews 8:12 And I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins.” [4] As believers in Jesus, with God’s help, we can extend grace and forgiveness to others. Praise the Lord!
To learn more about assisting someone who hurt you, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/war-and-worship
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.