Just a Thought: When bad things happen to good people, good people still have an obligation to do what’s right. Bad things happen to good people and bad people. That is just a fact of life. But good people don’t react, they respond. There is a big difference. Let’s take away the “good and the bad” term and just talk about us as believers. We have the nature of Christ in us so we can be Jesus to all those around us and in every situation. We have the Holy Spirit to guide us in all truth and through every matter. Now, it is up to us to be filled with the Holy Spirit so that we act like, talk like and look like Jesus (Eph. 5:18). We have to be prepared to respond to bad things done to us because we have been forewarned they will. Jesus told us to expect it! He said we should expect trouble in this word. He said we could expect if they hated Him, they would hate us. He said they persecuted the prophets and crucified Him, and we could anticipate a similar road. So, it ought not to catch us by surprise when some people treat us as they do. However, I admit I am sometimes surprised by “who” does some of the things they do. But I am rarely surprised by “what” some people do. So, what does the word of God tell us to do when they (whoever they are) do what they do? Jesus said to love them and pray for them. Paul instructs us on how to live with them. “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “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.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Rom 12:17- 21) First, Paul says do what is right (good, honorable, noble) instead of what will get you even. Then, he puts it on us to live as peaceably as we can with others. Notice, he leaves room for limits. “As much as is possible, as far as it depends on you…” Peace at any price (such as compromising with sin) is not at play here. There are times we have to agree to disagree. And then there are times we have to spate ourselves for individuals or situations. But ultimately, we are to be prepared to do the right thing. Keep the peace as much as we can and leave the vengeance stuff to the Lord to take care of. And trust that He will. And in all cases, be ready to be Jesus to everyone (good or bad) all the time (good or bad) because we can! When bad things happen to good people, good people still have an obligation to do what’s right. Because as believers we are to respond and not react! Dear Lord, help me always remember I represent You in this world. And my life is not my own, it belongs to You. Help me be mindful I always need a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit so that I will be Jesus to everyone all the time. Help me Lord to be ready for anything so that I am Jesus in everything I do and say. Thank You for Your “always” loving care of me. In Jesus name, amen.
