DO NOT GET THE LAST WORD

In watching "The Bible" mini series these past few weeks and seeing the actor portraying Jesus always being peaceful even when insults were being hurled at him, it led me to believe we too are supposed to emulate Christ if we claim to be a Christian. How many of us could stand idly by while someone mocked or insulted us? Human nature is to strike back and return insults or defend ourselves. Jesus did nothing to deserve his treatment.

1 Peter 3:9(NIV) says '.

Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.' Perhaps someone has tried to start a shouting match with you. The big thing is to diffuse this type of behavior by keeping calm and peaceful. It usually drives the person "attacking" you crazy as they are trying to start a fight. Just because someone is hurting you is no reason to treat them the same way. Proverbs 20:22(NIV) says 'Do not say I'll pay you back for this wrong but wait for the Lord and He will avenge you .' 1 Peter 2:23(NIV) says 'When they hurled insults at Him , he did not retaliate and when He suffered He made no threats. Instead He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.'

Think of Easter for just a moment, since it is upon us this coming Sunday. Imagine if you possibly can, experiencing the type of painful torture and mocking that our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ endured. Isaiah 53:7 says 'He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth. He was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its' sharers is silent so he did not open his mouth.' This is only a "God thing" to be able to remain silent in the face of unjust torture and accusations.

Perhaps you are not being hung on a cross like Jesus to suffer a horrible "temporary" death, but your issue is something much smaller. Maybe you were hurt by a spouse with a verbal tongue lashing. This should never occur but if it does stay cool and be Christlike unless you are being threatened physically. Maybe your cruelty is at the hands of a boss. Once again do the right thing and remain calm and Christlike. Did a friend hurt you or betray you? Whatever it is run to Jesus and give up the idea you want to get them back.

Let me leave you with this verse from James 1:20(NIV) which simply says 'For the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.' Remember your real enemy is not mere man but Satan.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus during this Easter season we think of you and the awful way your were treated. Lord help me to imitate you in my words and actions if I am ever mistreated by someone. Show me how to love like you with a super natural love. In Jesus name. Amen.