As life is lived in the midst of a world with varied circumstances and situations, what is experienced gives rise to varying feelings and inclinations. Do we strike back? Do we give in to join in the world’s ways? When inclined to retaliate in the manner in which we have been treated, feeling we have every right does not necessarily make it right.
In one of David’s psalms we read. . .
“(1) O Lord, I call upon you; hasten to me! Give ear to my voice when I call to you! (2) Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice! (3) Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! (4) Do not let my heart incline to any evil, to busy myself with wicked deeds in company with men who work iniquity, and let me not eat of their delicacies!” (Psalm 141:1-4 ESV)
As David wrote those words, he was obviously in peril or feeling threatened, perhaps by the pursuit of Saul and his men. Amid trying times, it is possible to be drawn into like actions in the defense of self and yet how many times was David seen to restrain himself from the opportunity to take out this enemy? (i.e. 1 Samuel 24:4-7; 26:10-11) Those who oppose us and stand against us can easily stir up and draw out the worst in us rather than the best. Therefore, we need to focus on the development of godly character from which our actions or reactions will arise regardless of how we are treated. Though we live in a world that may think revenge tastes sweet, let us keep our appetite from desiring such. Let us decline to incline toward any evil way.
Remember Paul’s exhortation to Christians at Rome where we read. . .
“(17) Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. (18) If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. (19) Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” (20) To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” (21) Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:17-21 ESV)
In this passage Paul referenced Proverbs 25:21-22. His exhortation also echoed the instruction of our Lord in relation to enemies and ill treatment. (Matthew 5:43-48) Keeping in step with the Spirit of God, better fruit will be produced in our life (Galatians 5:22-25) to enhance our interactions with others. Therefore, may our inclination remain toward blessing others as God has so graciously blessed us!
Have a great day DECLINING EVIL AND INCLINING TOWARD GOOD!
Carl
