Romans 12:17-18 – Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.

In this world, there’s always going to be someone out there who will say and do things to try and get under your skin.

Don’t let them.

Sounds simple, and I’m sure you’ve heard this several times before. But it took me a while to really understand that reacting and retaliating for every offense or slight was a useless waste of time. It took me a while to legitimately not be bothered by the things people did.

I didn’t understand the rationale for not taking offense. But now that I do, it’s like I’ve been rescued from years of future heartache. Hallelujah!

Because here’s the reality:

God knows all of our hearts. He knows when we’ve been treated unjustly. He sees everything.

When someone decides to mistreat you, it’s not a direct offense to you, but to God. Jesus said that however you treat others (the least of these) is how you treat Him. So don’t carry any wrath because of the actions of others. The wrath belongs to God.

You’re not accountable for how others treat you. You’re only accountable for how you treat others. Period.

Think of those distateful interactions as “God-giving” opportunities.

If you feel you’ve been treated unfairly, don’t waste time overanalyzing, venting, or retaliating.

Take the experience as an opportunity to showcase God’s love.

Perhaps the person is depressed and dissatisfied with life. Perhaps the person is grieving or traumatized. Perhaps the person doesn’t know God.

…Or maybe they’re just jerks. Who knows.

Whatever the case, be the vessel to help that person understand that God’s love is greater and more powerful than their negativity. Through your actions, show that person that God’s love is patient, kind, slow to anger, and doesn’t keep records of wrongs.

Not everyone will respond well to your gestures, but by returning love for hostility, some may become curious about the God that you serve.

And all those who witness your behavior will be able to observe that you actually do value being at peace with everyone.

Pray for those who don’t have the mind to treat you with kindness.

And make God proud by representing His love and grace.

Sincerely,

Alexia