Overcome Evil

 With Good

 

 

Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.

 

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” No, “if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

 

Romans 12:9-21

 

It is not always easy to forgive and to forget, unless you are a dog. We aren’t. We are human. Our God is the only One with perfect knowledge of what is good for us, yet we often behave as if we know better.

 

God graciously teaches what is best, but He does not force us to do it. He patiently presents what is right and good, and allows us to choose it.

 

God’s teaching may not always make sense, but it is always senseless to think we know better. So, make up with someone you need to.

 

The best way to conquer an enemy is with the weapon of love.

 

Our Daily BreadJune 9, 2006