Beyond Revenge
At bedtime, my 10-year-old Nate told me about a conflict at school which escalated when another boy called him a bad name.
As my son expressed his hurt, I recalled a phone call I had with another adult. During the call, the individual made an accusation about my character. I instantly responded in kind.
A couple of weeks later, however, while reading my Bible, conviction pricked my heart. As I read, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult,” I remembered my unkind response. The words don’t repay pierced me.
In retaliating with my words, I dishonored Jesus. I asked the Lord to forgive me and fill me with His love for the other person. Later, I apologized to the individual for my unkind remark.
This situation taught me that the degree of guilt doesn’t matter; I only needed to take care of my conscience. Although it was very difficult to humble myself, God helped me. And ultimately, His peace filled my heart.
Taking the High Road
While kissing Nate “goodnight,” he admitted, “Mommy, I wanted to call the boy a bad name back. But I didn’t.” Unlike his mother, Nate hadn’t returned evil for evil.
Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing….1
Also check out Why Must We Forgive? from The Purpose Driven Life
