Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. 1 Thessalonians 5:15 (NIV)
In our prayer time during our Tuesday night Bible Study, someone mentioned all the anger in the world and how it shows when people get in their vehicles. Even the person we think of as typically meek and mild-mannered can become someone different when surrounded by 3000 pounds of steel with an engine. All those angry thoughts that previously lay dormant are suddenly released as they live out their aggression on the roadways. Sometimes, we may have uncharitable thoughts and, in weaker moments, even actions in response. We want to pay back wrong with wrong.
In writing to the Thessalonians, Paul didn’t know anything about modern road rage—there likely wasn’t the same angry response when mule-pulled carts passed each other—but he knew about the natural human inclination to respond with vengeance. As people who have been set apart, we are called to rise beyond the urge to react not with wrongness but rightness. This rightness is the righteousness of God that we pursue as justified and sanctified people of God. While we may feel anger in the moment, we respond to it with kindness. Instead of doing things that appeal to our baser instincts, we smile, wave, and pray for them. If they have a “Baby on Board,” be sure to say a special prayer for the baby!
Paul, of course, is echoing the teachings of Jesus. In Matthew 5:39-44 and Luke 6:27-31, Jesus emphasizes radical love and forgiveness. They call for non-retaliation, encouraging believers to turn the other cheek instead of seeking revenge. Additionally, Jesus instructs His followers to love their enemies, do good to those who hate them, bless those who curse them, and pray for those who mistreat them. He promotes treating others with the same compassion and respect that one would want for themselves, regardless of how they are treated in return. These teachings highlight the importance of mercy, grace, and the transformative power of love in overcoming hatred and conflict.
As followers of Christ, we are called to rise above the natural inclination to respond to wrongs with vengeance. Instead, we are encouraged to embrace righteousness and respond with kindness and compassion. By doing so, we reflect God's love and grace in our actions, positively impacting those around us. Let us strive to do what is good for each other and everyone else, knowing that our actions can bring light into a world often overshadowed by anger and frustration.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless love and grace. Help us to embody Your righteousness in our actions, responding to wrongs with kindness and compassion. Guide us constantly to strive to do good for each other and everyone else. When we feel anger or frustration, remind us of Your teachings and fill our hearts with Your peace. May we reflect Your love in all we do and be a beacon of hope in the world. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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