Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Therefore, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
- Romans 12:17-21 (NKJV)
“I’ll get you, my pretty, and your little dog too!” The desire for revenge seems to be as old as time itself. Cain killed Abel out of anger—and perhaps a sense of revenge—because Abel’s offering was favored. The Bible is filled with stories of people seeking payback. But let me ask: does revenge ever truly make you feel better?
I can think of a few times when I tried to get even with someone, only to have it backfire—badly. Difficult people are everywhere: at work, in the store, on the road, in our families, and even in our churches. I once read that the number one goal in dealing with difficult people or tough circumstances is this: Don’t become what you hate. It’s not about hating the person, but about refusing to let negativity, pettiness, or sin take root in your own heart.
We are called to live at peace with everyone. Everyone. We don’t have to agree. We don’t even have to discuss. But we do have to love. We don’t overcome evil by using underhanded or dishonorable means. Instead, we drive back darkness by doing what is right and filling our hearts with goodness. There is no greater example of overcoming evil with good than Jesus.
Maybe revenge isn’t a dish best served cold. Maybe we shouldn’t serve it at all. Let’s do only what is good and right. Be peaceful. Love one another. Pray earnestly, forgive yourself and others, and lead by example. Let love guide you—always.
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