Going the Extra Mile
Posted by Karah
Pause
Focus on all that you have to be thankful for today. Thank the Lord for His faithfulness and provision in your life.
Revenge n.= To avenge (as oneself) usually by retaliating in kind or degree; to inflict injury in return for an insult
Think about our world today. We live in a culture that craves revenge. The general expectation is that people should pay for every way they’ve wronged us. How do you see that to be true in society today? Record a few ideas in your journal.
Revenge isn’t a new issue. Jesus had something to say about it in the Sermon on the Mount. ReadMatthew 5:38-42 in your Bible.
“You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. But I tell you, don’t resist an evildoer. On the contrary, if anyone slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.” —Matthew 5:38-39
Ask yourself:
Why do you think revenge is such a temptation when someone wrongs us? Explain.
What does Jesus say we should do instead of exacting revenge on others? Write it in your own words.
Think about a situation in your life where you might want revenge. How would showing compassion instead of anger point others to Jesus?
Respond
Is there a situation you’re facing right now in which you’re tempted to hold a grudge instead of extending grace to the other person? Pray over that situation, asking Jesus to fill you with His love so you can respond as He would.
Journal a prayer, asking God to change your perspective and help you choose love and mercy over revenge.
Pray by name for the people in your life who are constantly seeking revenge and payback. Ask God to give you opportunities to turn the other cheek or go the extra mile in their lives.
Behind the Story
Originally, the “eye-for-an-eye” law was not given to exact revenge, but to legislate justice. Jesus, however, called His followers to a different response, one designed to display the mercy and grace God has shown us. How would truly living like this change the way the world views Christians?
The Point
Mercy and grace—not revenge—should characterize our conduct and treatment of others.
Posted in Devotions, Girls | Tagged Camp Crestridge for Girls, Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission., Ridgecrest Summer Camps, Weekly Devotions