“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.” . . . Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Rom. 12:20–21)
Expanded Passage: Romans 12:14-21
Except for politics and military contexts, we seldom use the term “enemy” nowadays. Instead, we may describe someone as toxic or narcissistic, such as a former boss, neighbor, or partner. While not everyone encounters such dynamics, many harbor dislike for those with opposing beliefs. For some, an enemy is someone who has caused trauma to them or their family. This builds a theme of revenge and hate that is prevalent in social media, reality shows, and our text messages.
In the book of Romans, Paul addresses the Roman church, composed of Jews and Gentiles with strained interactions. Romans 12:14–21 calls for a Christlike response, centered around humility and love. Christ, even on the cross, blessed those who persecuted him, asking God to withhold his wrath (Luke 23:34). We must maintain integrity in our interactions, especially among believers. When hurt, we should respond with grace, forgiveness, and humility, not seeking vengeance. We are not equipped to mete out justice to our enemies or the enemies of the Lord. Instead, we can extend the grace we’ve received and trust the perfect and just Judge to dispense wrath in his way and time. This way of holiness is what separates us from others, because others will see God in our actions.
Embrace grace, forgiveness, and humility in your interactions, leaving vengeance to God.
Hunter Curtis is a husband and father who loves traveling, reading, and equipping leaders. He is a licensed minister and operates a graphic design business.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
