Few things make me angrier than when I’m wronged or cheated. A company with faulty business practices cheats me. A person goes around town spreading vicious rumors and lies about me or my loved ones. Someone steals my belongings. Someone lies to me and then laughs about it behind my back. And the list goes on.

My first reaction is to get even with the offender. I think of ways to get them back and make them pay.....Make them hurt like they’ve hurt me. But, according to Scripture, that’s not the right way to respond.

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.

Romans 17-19

I’ve applied this truth many times towards my enemies. It’s one of the hardest things to do because I have to make a conscious decision to forgive, give up my right to revenge; and place the situation squarely in my Father’s Hands. Every time I’ve followed through, I’ve watched Him work in ways that are indescribable. He carries out perfect justice in His time and in His way.

Father God, Chip Ingram recently said (tongue in cheek), “Everyone should get what they deserve....except me! I laughed out loud as I think the same way! The truth is, You haven’t given me what I deserve because of Your grace and love. How can I not do the same to others if I claim to be Your follower? You gave Your life to cover all of my sins even though I did nothing to deserve it. Thank You Lord. Help me to pass these tests when they come my way. It is against my very core, but with Your help, I can repay evil with good and let You do Your work. Amen.

Not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:9