Even Measure!

Even Measure!

See that none of you repays another with evil for evil, but always aim to show kindness and seek to do good to one another and to everybody. 1 Thessalonians 5:15 AMPC

I note that today's extract is addressed to people Paul calls 'brethren', who share the same faith with each other. You would assume that there would be no rancour or bitterness, but as long as human beings exist, conflicts are integral to interactions and relationships. What you do and how you respond to conflicts would speak to your knowledge of God and maturity in relationships.

Today's extract, spoken to brethren sharing the same faith, admonishes them not to repay evil with evil. It is normal human reaction to get even with someone. We keep friends, who we share things with. We give gifts in exchange at festive seasons, we offer help to others who have also helped us in the past. It's all easy when the target of our affections 'deserve' it. However, it takes the highest form of grace to extend help and good to someone who has only done us evil, yet that is the charge today, and the lesson the life of Christ teaches us.

Every action would get a just recompense but the determination of reward or punishment is God's exclusive preserve. All he asks me to do is to represent him on earth, be his eyes, hands and feet and show him off to the world. How does the world know the difference or how would the world be convinced to switch allegiance if I act the same way the world would act?

The charge to do good to everyone is not with conditions. It does not require the target of your good to deserve it, or to have worked hard for it. It just requires you to obey your own Master and Lord, do what he commands, and leave the consequences and effects of your actions to him. Is there a guarantee that your good will be appreciated? NO. Is there any guarantee that you will not lose your life or lose some other benefits while doing good? NO. Yet, God says do good. Obedience would unlock other doors that generations after you would enjoy. Ask Abraham and David.

As you go out today, sow eternal seeds. Lives are waiting for your manifestation and they will only take notice when you are different. Are you? His time of favour is here.