Bible Reading: Psalm 96-98; Romans 12.
Memory Verse: “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21 (KJV).
King Saul became jealous of David after he killed Goliath and the women sang that Saul killed in thousands but David killed in ten thousands (1 Samuel 18:7). The jealousy consumed him so much that he determined to kill David and he did not hide his intention from anyone. “And Saul spake to Jonathan his son, and to all his servants, that they should kill David” (1 Samuel 19:1 KJV)
David knew this and escaped the death plans on a number of occasions but when he had the opportunity of killing Saul without any challenge, he chose to save his life! (1Samuel 26:7-17). That is what is expected of a true child of God. Thus, the Bible says in Romans 12:21 (KJV), “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” This is quite explicitly stated in the previous verse of the same chapter in Romans 12:20 (KJV), “Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.”
Brethren, how do you treat your enemies these days? How do you treat those who persecute you in the office, family, your neighborhood or even in the church? Do you remember the words of Romans 12:17 (KJV), “Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.” God knows that you will be offended, some intentionally while others unintentionally but whichever way, you are not expected to avenge yourself because God knows the intention of every being and will reward everyone accordingly. If you decide to avenge yourself, you may not know the intention of the person but only see the physical manifestation of his/her action and your reaction will be based on that manifestation! That’s why you should leave all your offenders to God who knows all things.
Can you imagine how the whole world will be if everyone obeys this instruction of the Lord. There will be peace everywhere and the world will be a better place. While you may not be able to emplace this in the world,
at large, you can start with yourself by ensuring that you handover all your adversaries to God at all times. By this, you will not only be bearing part of the fruit of the Spirit, you will have a merry heart and a sound health! (Proverb 17:22).
Prayer point: The power to overcome evil with good, release to me today oh God.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero