The Marks of a Christian - Overcome Evil with Good

Our lives as Christ-followers should have outward marks, which enable others to sense that we are different. Set apart. Living in the world, but not of the world. Yesterday, we explored blessing our enemy instead of seeking vengeance, returning their evil with good. Why? “For by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head” (Romans 12:20b). This New Testament verse is a direct quote from an Old Testament verse, Proverbs 25:21-22. Used here, many interpreters think "burning coals" suggests a burning conscience. A heaviness of heart. An intense shame that leads one to repentance when good confronts their evil. But "burning coals" in the Old Testament represents God's punishment. (2 Sam. 22:9; Ps. 11:6). It cues us to remember God’s history of judging the wicked. How He served justice for all wrongs.   If vengeance is God’s job, then what’s ours? “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). God wants His followers to be good doers. Peace seekers. Heart healers.  Overcome evil with good. Return hurt with love. Darkness with light. When we do, burning coals are cast upon our enemy’s head. They experience God’s judgment. And we are free to let God be God.  Let Him do justice. Then we can enjoy the rest of our life to the full.