Dear friend, as it says in Romans 12:21, the Bible states, “Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.” This is quite challenging because our instinct is to respond to evil with more evil. We often think, “I will get back at you and put an end to you.” This is our natural inclination.

However, keeping our eyes on Jesus alone helps us to know how to respond when we are treated poorly. In the 19th verse, Paul said, do not take revenge, my dear friend. But leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord." Again, he said, "If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." See how beautifully the Lord teaches us. The Lord shows us the way and how to behave with our enemies. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus says, "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." Returning good for evil is one of the greatest demonstrations of strength. When we take revenge for the evil which has been done to us, people will say, "you are weak." So conquer your enemies with kindness and patience. By doing this, you will turn your enemy into a friend. 

In this way, David overcame King Saul. In Acts 7:60, Stephen fell to his knees and cried out as he said, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." Most of all, Jesus is our best example to follow. When people insulted Him, He didn't retaliate. Even as He faced death, He said to the Father, "Forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing." If anyone wrongs you, forgive and forget. Don't hold grudges. By doing this, you will overcome evil and be more than a conqueror. May the Lord help you to do this.

PRAYER: 

Dear Lord, thank You for speaking to me through Your word and teaching me to overcome evil with good. You have given me two commandments: to love You and to love others and to pray for them, even for my enemies. You want me to continue doing good work and to bless those who curse me. This is the kind of love You expect from me. I pray that You will help me to love people as You do. Fill my heart with Your love and compassion so that I can pray and do good to everyone, even those who have hurt me. Please remove every bitter feeling and unforgiveness from my heart and let Your peace surround me. Let me shine Your loving presence to others and overcome evil with good. Let Your goodness and mercy follow me all the days of my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.