DAY 6

Introduction

No one enjoys being wronged, and taking revenge may seem like the only way to get justice. Revenge may seem satisfying, especially if that final blow totally outdoes your opponent. But is revenge real victory? Does it restore to you whatever is lost? While it’s often said that revenge is sweet, God’s Word offers a different perspective. 

Pray

God, I have been wronged and I’m angry. Help me see my situation through your eyes. Help me choose your way.

Read

The apostle Paul tells us that revenge is best left to God.

Romans 12:17-21

Reflect

Paul says that doing good to our enemies is like putting burning coals on their heads. The good we do sears the conscience, causing our enemies to eventually feel remorse and maybe even repent. Admittedly, doing good when we’ve been wronged is difficult to do. It requires letting go of anger and choosing to forgive. What is your greatest obstacle in deciding to let go and let God have the last word in your situation? 

Respond

Matthew West’s song “Forgiveness” includes these lines:

“It’s the hardest thing to give away

And the last thing on your mind today

It always goes to those who don’t deserve

It’s the opposite of how you feel

When the pain they caused is just too real

Takes everything you have to say the word

“Forgiveness, forgiveness"

It flies in the face of all your pride

It moves away the mad inside

It’s always anger’s own worst enemy

Even when the jury and the judge

Say you’ve got a right to hold a grudge

It’s the whisper in your ear saying set it free

“Forgiveness, forgiveness”

Forgiveness lyrics © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., 2012

Write a response to these lyrics and then pray about it.