" WHY NOT VENGEANCE? "

Good Day to you and I mean it. Are things well with you and yours? I pray that you are walking with the Lord Jesus Christ.

This week we will be looking into " VENGEANCE " and believe it or not we all should truly take heed to this one. " Never take your own Revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, " VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY," says the Lord (Rom. 12:19).

When someone hurts you deeply instead of giving him what he deserves, Paul says to befriend him. Why do you think that he told us to forgive our enemies? (1) Forgiveness may break a cycle of retaliation and lead to mutual reconciliation. (2) It may make the enemy feel ashamed and change his or her ways. (3) By contrast, repaying evil for evil hurts you just as much as it hurts your enemy.

Even if your enemy never repents, forgiving him or her will free you of a heavy load of bitterness. God will repay those who deserve it. Refuse to rejoice when your enemies suffer, and don't try to get revenge. Seeking Revenge will ruin your own peace of mind and increase the chances of further retaliation. Sometimes forgiving a personal attack shows more strength than lashing out in revenge. Trying to prove one's power and authority often proves only one's fear and self-doubt. Insulting others and being jealous are not right responses when we feel left out. But seeking revenge for an insult is just as wrong, and very costly.

God's will is supreme over all rulers, all historical events, and all hostile forces. He can deliver us in ways we can't imagine. Now, if we trust in his power and love, no opposition can stop us. Now do not be redundant Jesus' words about REVENGE: When we are wronged, often our first reaction is to get even. Instead Jesus said we should do good to those who wrong us! Our desire should not be to keep score, but to Love and Forgive. This is not natural - it is Supernatural. Only God can give us the strength to love as He does. Instead of planning vengeance, pray for those who hurt you.

Until next Time...
Jim