Seeking to even the score when not treated well is retaliation. Getting back at others and then some (which is often what occurs) is escalation. Where does it stop? A world governed by such action merely continues to feed conflict rather than resolve it. It can only stop (at least in our life sphere) when we choose to respond in a different manner than we are treated. Rather than allowing the actions of others to determine our reaction we need to make the decision to act differently. As has been said, “Without forgiveness, life is governed by an endless cycle of resentment and retaliation.” (Robert Assagioli) [a variation of this is also attributed to Zig Ziglar] It is forgiveness that can work to end that cycle.
Writing to the church at Ephesus, Paul exhorted. . .
“(31) Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. (32) Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32 ESV)
Those temperaments listed in verse 31 are to be seen as out of place with our Christian character. They are part of the old person put to death when we were united in Christ. Therefore, rather than throwing back what others do, let us pass on what God through Christ has done for us. Let us recognize how the stopping of conflict can begin with us as we choose to treat others as graciously and mercifully as we have been treated by God. To acknowledge His forgiveness remains the need for ourselves as well as for others, may our extension of it draw the attention to its greatest provider!
Have a great day ENDING CONFLICT’S CYCLE WITH CHRISTLIKE FORGIVENESS!
Carl
