Yesterday, we looked at a passage from the Book of Psalms [Ps 34:12-16]. Today, we see that passage used by Peter in his exhortation to the Christian community. He wants them to work for peace; to actively seek and maintain peace as an ongoing effort, because we cannot be divisive and receive the blessing of God at the same time. Seeking peace is simply remaining in the supernatural peace and presence of our Lord!
So, let’s talk for a minute about retaliation, because Peter lets us know there is no room for it in the believers. We cannot repay evil with evil or even insult with insult. Everything in us may scream for revenge, but that is not an option for our lives as God’s children. We are bearers of God’s grace, so walking in humility, extending mercy and seeking to maintain peace leads to the blessing. We must trust God to make things right in his time.
Sometimes it just has to be enough that God sees our hearts and knows the truth. We cannot aggressively take matters into our hands, because we do not see the whole picture. Instead, we are to speak the truth in love, seek to bring peace, and run from the temptation of evil to vindicate ourselves. It’s a hard lesson, but it teaches us to trust God’s loving care. The truth always comes to the surface in time.
1 Peter 3:8-12 NLT All Christians
8 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. 9 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. 10 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.
11
Turn away from evil and do good.
Search for peace, and work to maintain it.
12
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.”[Psalm 34:12-16]
Prayer: Lord, thank you for this lesson today from Peter and David. We do want to enjoy life; so, help us stay in your presence and enjoy your peace. Let it guard our hearts and minds. We surrender our rights to get even, because we are clinging to the hem of your garment instead. Life is not fair, but you have saved us by grace and now we must live in it. We live for a greater purpose. Thank you for the power and the ability to practice what you require. In Jesus’ name. Amen.