Overcome Evil

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. ~ Romans 12:21

My human instinct is to become angry, defensive and resentful when someone hurts me.  However, as a follower of Jesus, I am called to be kind even to those who hurt me, even if it’s intentional.  Polishing off evil with evil back just doubles the evil and doesn’t accomplish anything.  On the other hand, when we approach evil with kindness we open the door to forgiveness and stop the offender in their tracks.  Evil cannot do anything but fold under goodness.  It’s like a shock to Satan’s system and thwarts his plan.  It’s like putting out a fire. Good always overcomes evil.  Man alone does not have the capability to overcome evil, but the Holy Spirit in you can give you the power, and the strength to choose goodness over evil every time.  Jesus chose goodness for all mankind who have accepted Him when He died on the cross for us while we were still great sinners.  John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”  We can now be free from our evil pursuits and attitudes through the Holy Spirit who lives in us as followers of Jesus Christ.  Our character should change to be Christ-like and Christ-ruled.  We have the power to overcome our adversary when he wants us to act in an angered, or evil manner.  Christ should be who we now imitate and we let Satan win over our emotions when we give way to evil instead of showing the same love Christ has shown us.  Do not let others' evil transform, or taint the work Christ is doing in you.  Do not respond to evil with evil, but with goodness through the Holy Spirit.  Evil reaps evil and goodness reaps goodness.  Do not respond to evil with more evil.  Instead, give it to Christ and let Him deal with it.  When you do not return evil, you become the conqueror.  Your heart stays clean.  You give Christ His rightful spot.  We are a light for Him when we do not become angry, or upset over the injustices toward us, but instead show goodness and kindness.  Who can argue with kindness and love for those who persecute you?  No one.  They would look foolish.  Do not give into the world’s ways of responding to evil.  Respond the way Christ would so that you may have a peaceful heart, attitude and life.  Lay the evil hurt at Christ’s feet to deal with and show mercy. ~ Amen