EYE FOR AN EYE

When we choose to live for Jesus we must also develop His character; we cannot have it both ways, in the Spirit and the world.  We must love everyone even those that hate us; needless to say we cannot accomplish this daunting task, without God’s strength.  We live in a society of raw power: the one with the strongest fists or the most guns wins. Instead of the Golden Rule, “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” our ethics are, “Do unto others first before they do unto you.” “If they do anything bad to you at all, finish them off before they can do anything worse.” Or my personal favorite, “I don’t get mad, I get even.” All of these expressions are natural responses; however, you and I are called to live a supernatural life.  Jesus says, “When you love without limits, you are like God.

Eye for Eye
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and a tooth for a tooth. 39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. 40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. 41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and does not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

Now, when necessary, you should seek to protect yourself, your family members, and victims of injustice and cruelty. But what Jesus is saying is this verse: When someone insults you, do not seek revenge. You should not trade insults, even if it means you receive more.  You must avoid retaliation and personal revenge

Father, we do not want to lose our souls, because we cannot forgive; so give us Your strength and love, to forgive those who wronged us.  Lord, open our minds to Your understanding; as You fill our hearts with Your wisdom and the knowledge, to let You lead in our lives.   Father, give us Your courage to walk away from drama and insults; help us to think and act like Christ, in these situations.  Lord, teach us how to pray for those who persecute us so we may be children of God.  Father, we understand we cannot just love those; that love us because there is no reward in doing these simple things.  Lord, give us eyes that see, walking away and praying for the evil of others; makes us more Christ-like, and bring honor to You.  Lord, give us this day our daily bread and forgive us for our sins, as we learn to forgive others.  In Jesus name, Amen