Matthew 5:38-39
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
Romans 12:17-21
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Devotion
Jesus continues teaching about kingdom living and the principles necessary to abide in God’s kingdom. You will note that these principles come into direct conflict with the principles of the world. You will also note that Jesus lived out these principles while He carried out His heavenly mission here on earth. Today’s lesson has to do with the subject of retaliation or revenge. In our flesh, we desire to have revenge on those who hurt us. We often view this as “our right” to hurt back. Pastor Kurt shared that this stems from a heart that is full of pride. Pride always causes us to act in ways that are contrary to the Gospel. Jesus is pointing out that there is a higher principle to follow. In essence, He is saying, “Do not seek retaliation but seek reconciliation.”
This passage is not about self-defense or allowing people to abuse you. God is the ultimate judge, and everyone will have to answer for their actions one day. If we are living out these kingdom principles, we must yield our right or need for vengeance over to God. We must not return evil for evil. We are instructed to overcome evil with good. These are not the principles of the world. The world tells us that when someone hurts us, we have the right to exact our own punishment. So many people hold onto their hurt and refuse to release it to God for true spiritual healing. They don’t realize the damage they do to themselves by refusing to release their offender to God.
Other than releasing our need for vengeance over to God, what else can we do to live out this kingdom principle? Pastor Kurt talked about “service” being one of the keys to living out this principle. Jesus came to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. In John chapter thirteen, Jesus demonstrated servant leadership and humility by washing His disciple’s feet. Then He said, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” Serving others takes a lot of humility, especially when it comes to your enemies! But the real question becomes, “Do I want to win the fight, or do I want to win the heart of my enemy?” Godly character has broad influence in the world. When those who oppose us see us acting in a way that is not congruent with the world, they take notice. Turning the other cheek is not a license for taking abuse, instead it is an opportunity to reflect the heart of Jesus before those who oppose us. Jesus said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”
Questions to Ponder:
Are you holding onto some past hurt that is impacting how you relate to others? Are you able to let go of your need for revenge and release this to God? Are there relationships in your life that need reconciliation? Are you able to reflect the humility of Jesus in your dealings with those who oppose you? Are you willing and able to serve others?
Prayer Points
- Praise God for being the ultimate Judge who can bring complete healing to our lives.
- Pray for forgiveness for the times that you have taken matters into your own hands and not trusted God.
- Ask God to give you the strength to trust Him at all times and in every situation.
- Pray that God would instill in your heart the values of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Suggested Prayer
Heavenly Father, whom all of heaven and earth derives its name. I adore You. You are holy, perfect, radiant and glorious. All honor and glory and riches belong to You, Son of God. Oh God, You forgive as far as the east is from the west, how much more should I forgive?! Make me a servant like your Son Jesus Christ. Forgive me for times I have wanted to get even. I confess my own pride Lord. I have sinned against You and others. Forgive me for grieving Your Spirit. Lord, I want to love the enemies around me, but I need Your help. Give me a heart of love and compassion for them. Teach me now how to pray for them. By faith I submit to You and Your leadership Lord. Teach me, grow me, mature me in You. In the Name of Jesus Christ I ask. Amen.