Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will bless you for it.
This is a pretty simple lesson to learn, but often hard to apply. We so often have someone be rude to us, and we, as humans, assume that being rude back will make it better. But getting revenge and just snapping back at someone doesn't help anyone. It doesn't show the other person who you really are as a follower of God, nor does it help them become a better person.
Blessing. Noun. "1. the act or words of a person who blesses. 2. A special favor, mercy, or benefit. 3. A favor or gift bestowed by God, thereby bringing happiness. 4. The invoking of God's favor upon a person." (Dictionary.com)
Notice the 3rd and 4th definitions. "bringing happiness" and "invoking of God's favor upon a person," isn't that what we want to be doing for other people? Isn't that what God wants us to be doing in this world? Yes. He wants us to shine His light into the darkness of the world. So those people who may lash out at you, do something to hurt you, need to see His light. Bless them. Do something polite. Respond in a kind way. When they see your strength it could very well change them.
Final Thought: Think before you act next time. Use your words carefully. Teach yourself to respond calmly and in a way that blesses other people.
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