Romans 12:17-21 - “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head. 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
*1- LOVE WITH
Matt. 6:38-42 - “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for 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 do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”
Matthew 5:16 - “…let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Paul gives two directives about how to love with integrity…
- If it is Possible
- As long as it depnds upon you
2- LOVE
Romans 12:19-20 - “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
revenge - t*he action of inflicting hurt or harm on someone for an injury or wrong suffered at their hands*
3- LOVE
Romans 12:21 - “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Overcome - to conquer; to carry off the victory
Ephesians 6:2 - “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
Proverbs 15:1 - “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger..”