“Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude. Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will grant you his blessing. For the Scriptures say, “If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers. But the Lord turns his face against those who do evil.””
1 Peter 3:8-12 NLT
It is so hard not to retaliate. When people have done us wrong, or when we see injustice and get (rightfully) angry, it is so hard not to lash out with fury and become a monster. We are followers of Jesus; we are to work for peace. True peace is not just punishing the wrongdoers but working to win their minds, hearts, and souls. God’s peace is not about retaliation but restoration. This does not negate the need for healthy boundaries – having limits is different than attacking people when we are hurt.
The way of Jesus begins with a humble attitude as you walk the way of the cross, especially when you have been wronged. Earlier in his life, Peter pulled out his sword because he wanted to fight violently against those attacking Christ. Jesus pointed Peter to the way of the cross – and in these verses Peter is pointing us in the same direction. When you are wronged, pay back evil with blessing. This is the lesson of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Do you have the peace of Christ, deep in your soul? How can you work for true peace today? Are there any grudges that you are holding onto?
