Daily Devotion for May 24, 2025

Devotion:

For an audio version of this devotion, click here.

Read Romans 12:17-20.

As humans, we tend to want to give back to someone what they give us. If they hurt us, we want to hurt them back. I have heard many parents say with pride “I told my child to never start a fight, but if somebody else starts one with you, finish it.” Most people think the Old Testament teaching of “an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth” is a good rule to live by.

However, Jesus taught that living his way included going beyond this teaching (Matthew 5:38-42). Paul continues Jesus’ teaching by writing “Do not repay anyone evil for evil,” then follows that up just two verses later with “Do not take revenge…” He reminds us to let God take care of dealing with injustice. And he gives us practical instructions for Jesus’ teaching that we are to “love our enemies” by being willing to help them when they are in need. (While “heap burning coals on his head” sounds harsh, I believe that is intended as an image of purification.)

This is another teaching that tells me living life as a follower of Jesus Christ is not easy. But Jesus himself showed us that it can be done, and many have followed in his footsteps in living life this way. Are you one of them?

Personal Worship Option:

Offer this prayer or one in your own words: Lord, I admit that this is a hard teaching. It is difficult to refrain from seeking revenge, even in small ways. Please give me the courage to live by this teaching, so that I may help even my enemies come to know you. Through Christ, Amen.