.....payback

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone Romans 12:17

Junior had just received his brand-new driver’s license, and to celebrate, the whole family piled into the car for his first official drive. As everyone found their seats, Dad slid into the back seat -- right behind his son.

With a grin, Junior said, “I’ll bet you’re sitting back there for a change of scenery after all those months of teaching me how to drive.” His dad chuckled. “Nope. I’m gonna sit here and kick the back of your seat while you drive — just like you’ve been doing to me for sixteen years!”

We laugh because we know the feeling – it’s tempting to give people a taste of their own medicine. When someone does us wrong, whether it’s a small annoyance or a big betrayal, our first instinct is often to get even.

But Romans 12:17 reminds us, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.” Instead of seeking revenge, God calls us to respond with grace, trusting that he will bring justice in his own perfect way and time.

That doesn’t mean we should ignore wrongdoing, but it does mean that we should choose wisdom over retaliation. It means refusing to let bitterness take root in our hearts. It means trusting that God can handle justice far better than we ever could.

Think about it -- When we hold onto resentment, who suffers the most? We do. When we seek revenge, does it actually fix the situation? Usually not. But when we release it to God, we experience peace. Jesus set the ultimate example when he prayed for the very people who nailed him to the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” Luke 23:34. If Jesus could show forgiveness in that moment, surely we can choose to let go of the small offenses that come our way.

So, the next time you’re tempted to “kick the seat” of someone who has wronged you, ask yourself the question, “Is it really worth it?” Maybe the better choice is to turn it over to God and leave your resentment in the rearview mirror.

Lord, help me resist the urge to get even. Teach me to trust you to deal with justice and to respond with grace instead of revenge. Fill my heart with peace, and remind me that forgiveness frees me more than payback ever could. In Jesus’ name, amen.