When you are under attack and someone has done you wrong, it’s human nature to want to retaliate, to seek revenge, and make them pay! Sometimes you may hurt so badly that you just want to run away. But none of those things will change what happened, undo the wrong, or make you feel better about it. In fact, it will only make you feel worse.
There’s only one thing that makes the pain go away, and that is asking God to put forgiveness in your heart for your enemies. Only then can Jesus heal your heart. Holding on to pain, anger, and bitterness will hurt you the most, so take the high road, and forgive the undeserving, show love when you are betrayed, and bestow kindness on your persecutors!
Yes, walking uphill is exhausting, requiring strength and effort, but you can trust God to help you–just reach for His outstretched hand. God never said the journey would be easy, but He did say that the arrival would be worth it. And if the devil tempts you to run away from your troubles, don’t listen. Running away is a race you will never win. Sooner or later, your problems will catch up with you. Anyone can run–that’s super easy–but holding God’s hand and facing your troubles will make you strong.
So when you are tempted to lash out in anger, sulk in a corner, or just plain run away, take the high road and claim this promise for your own in Deuteronomy 31:6, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Luke 6:27-28 NLT
27 “But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. 28 Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.
Luke 17:3-4 NLT
3 So watch yourselves! “If another believer[a] sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive.
4 Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive.”
a.17:3 Greek If your brother.
Colossians 3:12-15 NLT
12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
Acts 7:59-60 NLT
59 As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60 He fell to his knees, shouting, “Lord, don’t charge them with this sin!” And with that, he died.
© Brenda Walsh Ministries www.brendawalsh.com