Pay it Forward?

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil.  Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.”  Romans :17                                                                                      

These are words to live by.  However, the principles outlined here, are polar opposites of the world.  The world will tell you that you have the right to look out for number one.  The world will tell you to stand up for yourself; do what you want…it is your life!”

To be honest not repaying evil for evil runs contrary to human nature.  Before even thinking about it, we seem to respond in kind to what we are getting.  If someone raises their voice, we raise our voice.  If someone is rude, we are rude.  If someone is critical, we are critical right back.

But to do so, does not show forth the love and glory of God in this world.  When we are a big enough person to do what is right, even when we are not being treated right, God is honored.  And of course, people notice.  People notice those things because it runs counter to our culture.

Choosing to not repay evil for evil, is all about trusting God.  If we really believe He loves us and is watching over us, we do not have to jump up immediately to get vengeance on someone.  And of course, the longer we walk according to the principles of the Bible, the more we see how He stands over His Word to perform it.  Then our confidence grows even stronger that He is our defender.  He will bring the truth to light and He will work to protect His children.

“Being careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody” means that we are indeed “our brother’s keeper.”  We have a responsibility not only to the Lord to do right, but also to anyone who may see us.  Our spouses, our children, our grandchildren, our neighbors, our co-workers, fellow church members, these are all people we “owe a debt of love to.”  These are the people we have to care how they perceive what we are doing.  And let’s be honest.  If we have to explain to someone the “why” behind what we are doing, we are often doing the wrong thing.  When we do what is right, most people understand why we do it... even if they would not choose to do it that way themselves.

My husband has recently started an internet business, in which he is enjoying quite a bit of success.  Last week, he had his first irate, belligerent, rude, and impossible to please customer.  (Do you sense my irritation?)  Despite up close, clear pictures with zoom in capability, one person indicated that the product was not as advertised.  I was so proud of my husband.  He did not argue with the man, he did not respond in kind, he just took the product back and refunded his money.  This guy lives in another state, and does not know my husband is a Christian.  But God saw him respond in integrity in private and will bless him for it.  I saw it, our children saw it (and now thanks to me) you have knowledge of it as well.  Doing right feels good.  It makes for easy sleep at night, and it sets us up for the blessings and favor of God.

Dear Lord, help me today to respond in love.  Help me to do what is right in the sight of everyone.  Give me the grace to be an example in a dark world.  In Jesus Name.  Amen.

Sherri