And he said to David, “You are a better man than I am, for you have repaid me good for evil. 1 Samuel 24:17 NLT
Good for Evil –
Today’s Encouragement is David’s response to Saul’s persecution, hatred, and attempted murder.
Although King Saul attempted multiple times to kill David out of his extreme jealousy, David never lifted a finger against him, never retaliated, and never even said a harsh word to him or about him, even while Saul was throwing spears at him, leading his army to destroy David, and massacring the priests who aided David…
If anyone had any reason to fear, hate, despise, or retaliate – it was David.
But… he continued faithfully; he forgave Saul, time and again. There’s no record nor evidence of any resentment or retaliation in the detailed account of Saul and David. [David wasn’t perfect. In chapter 25, he intended to retaliate against Nabal, but God intervened (1 Samuel 25:34)]
My friend, Jesus told us clearly, Matthew 5:11a “God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you…”
Remember, God’s ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). We are blessed by God when we persevere through the persecution of others and continue to love, do right, and honor God, even when relentlessly pursued by evil! Whether it is your boss, a family member, or an enemy, it may be an addiction, a relationship, some situation or circumstance that is threatening to overwhelm and destroy you…
Lord God, help us remember to return good for evil, that we are blessed when we are persecuted, and that You see the truth and You know and understand. Help us to honor and praise You, even when it hurts.
Even when it hurts
Hillsong
Today’s Encouragement 