Today's Journal
IT DEPENDS ON ME
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Give careful thought to do what is honorable in everyone’s eyes. If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for God’s wrath, because it is written, Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.” (Romans 12:17-19)This is one of those bunched up instructions of Paul, an apostle, that can totally undo our ‘morning meditation where we spend time with the Lord.’ The reason is, because we get quiet and read something like this and it kind of takes our breath and ego away. Especially to see it as one liners:
-Live in harmony with each other.
-Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!
Never pay back evil with more evil.
Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable.
Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.
Dear friends, never take revenge.
Leave that to the righteous anger of God.
For the Scriptures say,
“I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the LORD.
Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them.
If they are thirsty, give them something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.”
Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.
(Romans 12:16-21 New Living Translation)
“If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (12:18)
“God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.” Jesus