“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. 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 ‭12:14-21‬ ‭NASB‬‬

When we let go of our vengeance and cling to love, 4 results come to mind

Others see who God is.

God is Love. No place do we see this more clearly than the cross. He intentionally sent His son to us, while we were yet sinners, to become sin on our behalf, to die in our place, that we might be reconciled to Him in righteousness. We deserved His wrath and were given His righteousness. This show who God really is. He is love!

We are free to watch Him work:

Our Vengeance by its very nature binds us from experiencing joy. It is an all consuming power that leaves no room for grace. When we leave room for God’s wrath, we can be sure that it will be carried out properly and we are free to watch both God’s grace and justice without being emotionally distraught.

Evil is overcome:

Our Vengeance does not produce anything good. We are to bless those who persecute and seek to meet their needs. For good overcomes evil. Evil never overcomes evil. Again we find ourselves at the foot of the cross. God’s goodness prevails and conquers death, securing us an eternity with Him.

Coal is heaped:

When we carry out our Father’s instruction and overcome evil with good, lives are eternally impacted and He is glorified. Scripture also tell us that if you meet your enemies needs, “you will heap burning coals on his head”. So when the wounds and stinging comments come this Christmas, heap those burning coals of grace and be free to watch the power of God unleashed. ReflectionWho in your life needs some of those burning coals of love and grace heaped on Him/her?Where have you not left room for God’s wrath and already carried out your vengeance instead? Apologize and Make it right. PrayerFather, you have instructed us rightfully to bless those who persecute us, to love our enemies, and to overcome evil with good. Help us to carry this out and give you glory. May many come to know You as a result. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

As I read chapter 25 I can’t help but compare this event to what happened to Jesus. Paul was called to suffer in a similar fashion to his Savior. There were serious charges without proof as the means by which to accuse.  On the surface it is filled with injustice, but in the overall narrative of God’s plan, it is one piece that encourages many to walk with Him even during the greatest persecution.  

Read Acts 25

1) What observations did you make?

2) What questions need to be answered to understand the passage fully?

3) What is the main theme?

4) What is the life application for the original readers?

5) How does this passage apply to believers today and you personally?

I hope you find great encouragement today!