Retaliation

<<paying back>>

All of us hurt others and cause them pain at times, either on purpose or unintentionally, similarly they also do to us. Regardless of the motive or reason, we are not to repay the wrong done to us by repeating the same action (Prov 20:22, 24:29). The Bible says, “Do not seek revenge but love your neighbour as yourself” doing as the golden rule says, “Do to others as we would they do to us” and living out the fruit of the Spirit (Lev 19:18; Mk 12:31; Lk 6:31; Gal 5:22,23).

The way Jesus would have us respond is to turn the other cheek overlooking the offense, to do more than expected, forgiving them, praying for and showing them mercy (Mt 5:38-41; Lk 6:27-36). Other good responses are

‘I leave this matter in your hands, Lord’

showing kindness, doing what is right, not remembering wrong done to us, nor repaying evil with evil but instead with a blessing motivated by love (Prov 25:21,22; Rom 12:17; 1 Cor 13:4,5; 1 Pet 3:9). The emphasis is on a loving response and not hurtful reactions. Jesus committed Himself to God when He was unfairly treated (1 Pet 2:21-23). We are to leave any revenge in God's hands, He will right the wrongs (Isa 54:17; Rom 12:19; 2 Thes 1:6,7; 2 Tim 3:14).