I’ve mentioned in the past that I am a movie reviewer on some radio stations. One of the longstanding themes in movies is the subject of revenge. An interesting twist in many revenge movies is how the one seeking revenge often gets caught up in the pursuit and becomes twisted, losing themselves along the way. Others may find what looks like justice. I watched a new series over the last few days that deals with the subject of revenge. It certainly makes for great action, and it makes it easy to know who we’re pulling for. When I was younger and someone did me wrong, there would be a desire in me at times to get revenge for those wrongs. As I’ve aged, even some pretty aggressive offenses don’t push me toward revenge, but instead create a sadness for the person who would do such a thing. I begin my day praying for three of the people who have most egregiously wronged me. My prayer is for their walk with the Lord, and for them to find peace, joy, and maybe even kindness. Scripture reminds me—and all of us—that those who do evil, whether to us or others, will be caught up in that evil themselves. It reinforces that it is neither necessary nor good for us to seek revenge. Jesus is the ultimate model of not pursuing revenge, but allowing peace to guard our hearts and minds. If revenge is to be had, that will be up to God, and He is more than capable. Life is so much more enjoyable when we let those issues and people go and focus on the good that God is doing in our journey. He will use those things to make us stronger and will redeem them to make us more like Jesus. Today, pursue forgiveness. #BeTheEdge
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” Psalms 34:14 NIV
