2 Timothy 4:14 “Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds.”

DON’T STRIKE BACK

Vengeance is mine! That’s a true statement. But the only one who should be saying that is the Lord, not us! Why do we think we have the right to execute judgment on others? It is sad that too many believers do not leave the correction of wrong doings to the Lord. They tend to justify their actions because they are striking out against sin. Read the verse again. Paul, who we know God used in miraculous ways, left Alexander to the Lord. Paul had more pressing things to do, like sharing the Gospel.

This is another one of those life moments that we need to diligently teach our children. It is only natural (sin nature natural) to want to get back at someone who has wronged us. We want to take matters in our own hands. When we do, we are basically saying, “God, I don’t think you can handle this.” Do we really want to our children growing up with that view of God. Isn’t He able to handle anything?

TEACHING MOMENT

The next time little Susie has her feelings crushed by someone, take the time to explain this principle to her. We need to pray for our enemies. We need to ask ourselves, “Who hurt them to make them this way?” We need to extend the hand of Jesus without placing ourselves in the situation again to be hurt. Jesus told us to be wise, but gentle.

I am not saying this is easy. I wish it was. My flesh wants to reach out and touch some people, of course all in the name of Jesus. I tell myself how good it would feel. But the Holy Spirit in me won’t let me. He constantly tells me to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Somehow I can’t seem to fit beating someone to a pulp in that. Lol.

Will you forgive your enemies? Will you pray for them? Will you be Jesus to them? God wants to use you as His instrument of peace in a chaotic and hurtful world. Come on, He left Glory for you! Can’t you leave your anger for Him?