Romans 12:17 (ESV)
Scripture:
“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.”
Devotion:
We are people who like to hit back. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. There is a kind of natural justice in that. But as the saying goes, if it’s always an eye for an eye, eventually everyone will go blind.
The gospel calls us to a higher standard. It is not to repay evil for evil. Turn the other cheek, repay evil with good and so heap burning coals on their heads. Living as a Christian who has been wronged is completely different to “natural justice”.
Why is this? Why are Christians called to a higher standard of grace than the natural justice that exists in the world?
It is because we have been given radical grace. When Jesus came to earth he came to free us from our sin. We actually deserve God’s eternal wrath. Because of our sin, we are permanently separated from God and deserving of his judgement. We have committed the greatest crime of all – sin against a holy God. And we deserve the highest punishment for that. That is the natural justice we deserve.
But then Jesus steps onto the scene and instead of meting out God’s judgement, he gives us access to God through the gift of grace. Total, unmerited favour. What is unfair is that He suffered in our place. And because he did, we now get eternal life.
So why do we not repay evil with evil? Because our evil was not repaid with evil. Our evil was repaid with grace.
And when we live out that grace when we are wronged, we show everyone around us the power of the Gospel to change lives.
Perhaps when they see that unnatural power, they too will turn to the one who can give it to them?
Prayer:
Lord, it’s tough not to react when I’m hurt or wronged. Help me to hold back that swift urge to repay evil for evil. Teach me to pause, reflect, and choose actions that reflect Your love and grace. May my life be a testament to Your mercy, showing others the honor that comes from living as You taught us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Spiritual Challenge:
Today, try to catch yourself in the moment you feel wronged or slighted. Instead of reacting as you might usually do, take a deep breath and think of a way to respond that would make someone say, “Wow, that was really honorable.” Whether it’s offering a smile in return for a frown or a helping hand when you’d rather turn away, let your actions today be a deliberate effort to repay evil with kindness.