It is written, Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord. —Romans 12:19
The principle of blessing our offenders is spelled out in Romans 12—not as an optional add-on, not as a senior-level course for those on the advanced placement track of Christian living. This passage is for you. And for me. And for everyone who needs God’s help to go all the way in forgiveness. Follow the progression:
First, “do not repay anyone evil for evil” (v. 17). The Word is so direct and unmistakable. Don’t return the evil you’ve received from others, God says. That’s His job. Okay, I get that part. We’re not supposed to pay back evil for evil. Vengeance is God’s job, not mine.
But there’s more. Here’s what we are supposed to do: “‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink’ . . . Overcome evil with good” (Rom. 12:20–21 ESV).
Don’t miss the incredible power contained in this truth. Not only do we not have to be victims of the evil others inflict on us. We can actually overcome evil—with good!
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Choosing Forgiveness: Moving from Hurt to Hope ©2022 Revived Hearts Foundation
Scripture taken from The CSB and The ESV
Make it Personal
Are you willing to be a channel of God’s grace to those who have hurt you? How is it possible to overcome evil with good?