Two scripture references that I came across today mentioned how we are to treat our enemy or foolish men. One in Romans and one in 1 Peter.
The Roman’s reference was part of the Bible app verse of the day. The 1 Peter reference was during my drive into work listening to a study on 1 Peter in the RightNow media app.
When that happens I tend to want to think on why this topic is coming up into my prefrontal purview. Sometimes I need to have big clues to catch on to what I’m being told.
First question: who is my enemy?
Well, I know Satan is my enemy. Especially if I am trying to do what is right. And the Bible says our battle is with spiritual forces of wickedness (Ephesians 6:12). Very Halloween appropriate.
How deep do I need to go here because I’m not seeing it. There is no well defined antagonist that I know about in my life.
Well, I do have a certain bitterness in the back of my mind from a recent situation at work. But that was more political than enemy. I believe.
Is it possible that bitterness can cause me to treat someone in a manner that is not as hospitable as I should be in the work environment? I’d like to think I would rise above that. But, would I give my best if they needed help? There now is the question.
Yes, now I see.
Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, ” vengeance is mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. “but if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12:19-21 NASB
https://bible.com/bible/100/rom.12.19-21.NASB
For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men. Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bondslaves of God. Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.
1 Peter 2:15-17 NASB
https://bible.com/bible/100/1pe.2.15-17.NASBFor what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer for it you patiently endure it, this finds favor with God.
1 Peter 2:20 NASB
https://bible.com/bible/100/1pe.2.20.NASB
