Here we are one day prior to the celebration of Easter Sunday. I think today of the evil forces in this world that hate Jesus and God and hated him so much back then that they hung him on a cross to die. Even when all this torture was going on what did He do? He wanted us to forgive those soldiers who hammered nails into His hands and feet, put a crown of thorns on Him and treated him so horribly. In Luke 23:34(ESV) it says 'Father forgive them for they know not what they do'.
Evil for evil, no way. God is good, and Satan is evil, the king of evil and lies. He is at work overtime even in the lives of Christians to trick, deceive and lie to them. That is why it is so essential that we saturate ourselves with the truths found only in God's word, The Bible. Do you study it and take time to "know Jesus"?
Do you ever catch yourself saying you do not like someone or even utter the word "hate"? Maybe someone has hurt you, been mean to you, or just treated you poorly. In Matthew 5:43-48(NIV) says 'You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get?Are not even the tax collectors doing that?And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.'
Try an experiment. Try actually forgiving people who have wronged you. Even if they are no longer around and you are unable to do it in person. Try just loving for a change. Ask God to transform the hate you may feel into His love for them. Only Satan wants revenge, not God.
Memorize this verse below if you can, found in 1 Peter 3:9(NIV). '
Click link before and enjoy this Easter melody.
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.'
When you start to get mad or let your thoughts dwell on being mad, turn it into love instead.
PRAYER: This is the day you have made for us to enjoy and serve you. I know Lord at times I allow the enemy to capture my thoughts and start wrong thinking. I allow hate and anger in when I should instead be allowing your transforming power of love. Help me Lord as I seek to stay on the path of love and forgiveness. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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