Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – October 7, 2016
The inhabitants of the earth will gloat over them and will celebrate by sending each other gifts, because these two prophets had tormented those who live on the earth. Revelation 11:10
Sometimes we receive the opposite of what we expect, as when our good deeds encounter an evil reaction. Some we have served seem to have forgotten our faithfulness, and gratitude has faded from their memory. They forgot the fruit from our labors, and it has become all about what might inconvenience them. You were there for them at their point of need but now in your need, they reject your request. It seems like a cruel joke. How could they forget your love and loyalty?
So what do you do when you are repaid evil for good? What is your prayerful response?
The only prophet an unbelieving world likes is a dead prophet, so for three and a half days contempt is shown for the two bold witnesses of Christ by leaving their corpses in the street—unburied—an insult to God and His spokesmen. A celebration breaks out in honor of the anti-Christ who has temporarily quieted the pesky and persistent voices of truth. This occasion for rejoicing during the tribulation is an aberration—not seen before or after. God eventually makes right the shamelessness of evil’s ugly acts in His sight.
“It’s been useless—all my watching over this fellow’s property in the desert so that nothing of his was missing. He has paid me back evil for good” (1 Samuel 25:21).
When evil intent is injected into a relationship, we must resist firing back with equally evil reactions. We cannot lower ourselves to this kind of schoolyard revenge. The question is not, “What is the right thing for them to do?” The question is, “What is the right thing for me to do?” You can reverse the force of the verbal jabs by returning good for evil. When you choose not to fight false accusations by accosting your accusers, you repay good for evil. You trust the truth will come out at the right time, in the right way—be patient, and pray for God to have His way.
The Lord Almighty can take care of the business of dealing with evil people and their actions. Wait on Him to settle matters as He sees fit, especially if you have the option to hurt someone. Trust Christ to deal with them in His timing. Evildoers may never change, but they might. It is a heart issue between them and God. In the meantime, when you encounter evil, repay it with good and trust Jesus. The goodness of God trumps evil, for evil is no match for God’s goodness.
“If a man pays back evil for good, evil will never leave his house” (Proverbs 17:13).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me holy restraint to not react to unholy accusations.Application
What good deed has a friend done that needs my positive support in the face of unfair criticism?Related Reading
Genesis 44:4; 1 Samuel 19:4; Psalm 35:12; 1 Peter 3:17Post/Tweet today
Truth will come out at the right time, in the right way, so be patient and pray. #WisdomHunters #evilforgoodWorship Resource
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How does one apply this in a divorce situation where you are falsely accused? Does it mean you do not provide a response to the petition to present your side? Note I have agreed to not contest the divorce.
Dear Sarah,
Thank you for your question. First, let me say, on behalf of the Wisdom Hunter’s staff, we are so sorry you are going through this difficult time. I am sure this is a difficult situation and please know we will be praying for you to feel God’s comfort, as well as His guidance, in the days ahead.
Sarah, I do not have an answer for your question, but I know the ONE who does. Pray to your Heavenly Father for discernment during this process.
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in You.” Isaiah 26:3
Cling to Him, Sarah, for strength and peace to get through this darkness and reach the other side.
“My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.” Psalm 119:50
In the devotional, “Evil for Good” Boyd states “You trust the truth will come out at the right time, in the right way- be patient and pray for God to have His way”. In the meantime, pray, pray, pray and snuggle up to Him through His Word.
And Sarah, when you are discouraged, remember that one of Satan’s weapons against believers is discouragement. Hold on to God’s Promises and He will protect you.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13
We are thankful for you, Sarah, and hope you will let us know how you are doing. Like I mentioned before, we will be praying for you.
The prayer at the end of the “Evil for Good” devotional seem to be written for you at this time:
“Heavenly Father, give me holy restraint to not react to unholy accusations.”
Believing and trusting~
Gwynne
“Above all else, guard your heart,
for it is the wellspring of life”
Proverbs 4:23