Isn’t it hard to be for those who are against us? There are some situations where perhaps we would like to just let people have it, whether that be a verbal tongue lashing or a fist to the face. However, are we not glad God has been for us even when our choices have gone against His Will? (note Romans 5:6 & 8) Though His judgment is to be taken seriously, for the present He offers the opportunity to repent and be drawn to a closer walk with Him. Therefore, considering how much FORGIVENESS WE HAVE RECEIVED from God, are we being MINDFUL OF BEING AS MERCIFUL toward others as He has been toward us? (note the parable of the unmerciful servant recorded in Matthew 18:23-35) Praise God for His gracious mercy.
Because it has been a few years, I can’t even remember the book I read it from, but what has stuck in my mind is the author’s mentioning of four responses to actions that may have been directed against us. The choices were that we could either curse it, nurse it, rehearse it, or reverse it. It was the author’s choice of words which have helped me remember them. Which of these we follow through with will impact the manner in which we treat others.
Remember Paul’s exhortation where we read. . .
“(14) Bless those who persecute you; bless and DO NOT CURSE THEM. . . . .(17) REPAY NO ONE EVIL FOR EVIL, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. (18) If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. (19) Beloved, NEVER AVENGE YOURSELVES, but LEAVE IT TO THE WRATH OF GOD, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” (Romans 12:14 & 17-19 ESV)
Some things may be easier to forgive than others. There are also some life incidents or situations difficult to remove from our mind. It is not foolish to live mindful of what we draw our life into and what situations might best be avoided. Still, forgiveness from the heart is important not only due to the impact it will have on how we treat others, but also because of what we are able to release from our own life as we LEAVE IT TO GOD to deal with things according to His mercy and will. If we can trust God with other areas of our life, let us also trust Him in this. By doing so, our life load will remain much lighter. Leaving repayment to God, He will bless us for our service to others and ultimately call to account those who have refused His Ways!
Have a great day TRUSTING GOD’S DEALINGS WITH OTHERS!
“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area. www.porttownsendchurchofchrist.org
#action-and-reaction, #christian-living, #forgiveness, #mercy, #revenge, #trusting-god