The Boundless Sea
Or who shut in the sea with doors when it burst out from the womb.—Job 38:8 (ESV)
Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.—1 PETER 3:9 NIV
Ah, the temptation to repay evil with evil…especially when you’re being mistreated or falsely accused. Have you, as a caregiver, ever wanted to lash out verbally when hurt? We probably all know what that feels like.
So what’s wrong with venting? Why not give that person you’re caring for a piece of your mind? Because we are Christ-followers and, as such, called to mimic His behavior. When Jesus encountered a wounded or sick person, He never lashed out. Likewise—even if the one you’re caring for has offended you in some way—you are never released by God to repay insult with insult, but rather with blessing.
Blessing? Is that really possible? It is, as long as you don’t react in the moment. Quick reactions are often angry reactions. Take some time to breathe. To pray. To think about your response. Then ask the Lord to give you exactly the right “words of blessing” to speak over the situation. You’ll be surprised every time. He’ll do just that!
Heavenly Father, sometimes I want to speak my mind. To get mad. To insult because I’ve been insulted. In those times, I ask for Your patience. May I only speak words that You would speak.
Or who shut in the sea with doors when it burst out from the womb.—Job 38:8 (ESV)
Hezekiah had very great wealth and honor, and he made treasuries for his silver and gold and for his precious stones, spices, shields and all kinds of valuables.—2 Chronicles 32:27 (NIV)
Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will
eat; or about your body, what you will wear.”—Luke 12:22 (NIV)