God's Glory Church

“When he was slandered, he did not slander each other, and when he suffered, he did not threaten, but handed over to the One who judges justly.” — 1 Peter 2:23

George was working on a construction site in the hot summer sun when suddenly one of his neighbors came into the yard where he was working. The man, clearly angry, started cursing and criticizing everything about the project and how it was being done. George received verbal blows, but left them unanswered until the angry neighbor stopped shouting. Then George softly replied, “You must be having a rough day today, aren’t you?” Suddenly, the man’s expression softened, he lowered his head and said: “I’m sorry that I talked to you like that.” George’s kindness eased his neighbor’s anger.

There are times when we want to strike back. Pay back an insult for an insult. Instead, George showed an example of kindness, which was most perfectly manifested in the sacrifice of Christ, who bore the consequences of our sins: “When he was reviled, he did not revile one another, and when he suffered, he did not threaten, but handed over to the One who judges righteously” (1 Pet. 2:23).

All of us will have moments when we are misunderstood, misrepresented, or attacked. We may want to respond in kind, but the heart of the Lord Jesus calls us to be kind, seek peace and show understanding. Today, by giving us an opportunity, God can use us to bless someone who is going through a difficult day.

Why is it so easy to take revenge on others for their unkind words? Instead, how can you show kindness to those who treat you unkindly?

Heavenly Father, please help me find in You the strength, grace, and wisdom to reflect the character of Jesus Christ.

Author: Bill Crowder