The Marks of a Christian - Repay No one Evil for Evil

If you are a follower of Jesus, your life should have outward marks that reflect your inward convictions. These marks signify that you live your life in a way that imitates Christ. When we do not repay evil for evil, we distinguish ourselves as Christians (Romans 12:17).          When others cause us harm or hurt through evil words or actions, our natural desire as humans is to strike back. Retaliate. Settle the score. But as Christ-followers we are called to choose a different path. A better path.  And in this case, the better path is forgiveness – the opposite of retaliation. Why? If we choose to retaliate, we are acting according to our fallen human flesh. It gives the devil an opportunity to expand hatred. When we respond with forgiveness, we are acting like Jesus. It gives Him an opportunity to expand love. When we practice forgiveness – the antidote to evil - we defuse retaliation. We forego a counterattack. We leave vengeance with its rightful owner, God (Romans 12:19). And we distinguish ourselves as Christians, set apart from the ways of the world.