1st Peter 3:9. “Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.” DEFUSE. How will it end if I can hurt him more than me? Through my evil retaliation will God’s grace be easy to see? If he goes down in flames, will it make me a rising star? What will be actually accomplished, will things be better than they are?
He is fast with words but I think I am much faster. If she says one more word, so help me, I will blast her! Then everyone will know enough to not say a word to me – But it is strangely quiet here, we never see any company.
No, a thousand times! Never let it e’er be said, “When he is done with you, you’ll be better off quite dead!” Do it the other way: when you are cursed, then you must bless – If you are railed against, don’t challenge or take offense.
Give to others a blessing and some day one will come to you. Always commit to graciousness, retaliation thus eschew. Others when blessed will be glad to see you come their way. And in a conversation, they will listen to what you say.
The overriding principle in fellowship is peace. Others will take heed then, when you exemplify God’s grace. You and I will find when in happy fellowship with each other – That God can bless us both when we joy in one another.
“Heavenly Father, there seems to be good fellowship in this place. But there hasn’t been salvation blessing for a long time. If there are some barriers or things left undone, reveal it please, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”
Animals "render evil for evil." That is in their nature. Getting even with those who oppose, and taking vengeance is considered by the world to be a sign of strength. The strength of character in a believer is exemplified in our Lord, who "when He was reviled, reviled not again." Railing means one is being insulted. The believer is called upon to respond by blessing, not to just suffer in silence. Such blessing brings light that drives away darkness. It allows us to minister grace to the benefit of others whether it is acts of mercy, or prayers of intercession.
In quoting from Psalm 34, Peter brings to bear the power of the word of God upon the suffering saints. The tongue is a little member of our body that can bless or curse. It is to be controlled and used for good. The lips give character to the words the tongue forms. Lips give the hidden meaning of the words, a true and visible expression. A curled lip, the down-turn of the lips, a smile can all be used with deceit, guile or with honesty. Avoiding evil is a choice, as is knowing what is right and doing it. To avoid evil and have nothing in its place that is good, leaves one in danger of being a moral vacuum. Peace does not always stay with us, so we have to purse it. It is not an automatic response to events in our lives, but it is a result of commitment when we deal ahead of time with things that could cause problems. When a conflict does arise, one who pursues peace acts quickly before the matter gets out of hand.