The truth is like a lion; you don’t have to defend it. Let it loose; it will defend itself. -St. Augustine of Hippo
Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. -Romans 12:19 (NIV)
Sometimes life is stranger than fiction. You might feel like you’re living in an episode of the “X-Files.” In personal and business interactions, you’ll eventually run into someone who treats you unkindly behind closed doors, then more normally when others are present. That person may not even be aware they’re doing it.
Sometimes you feel like no one can see the truth you see. It can be so utterly frustrating when you endure injustice and it seems like the other person is getting free passes like they’re going out of style.
You may think that this is your lot in life. You may start to doubt yourself, as if maybe it wasn’t happening. That’s the enemy at work.
Observant friends and colleagues will notice and confirm that you’re not seeing things. But it’s also possible that they won’t, and that’s okay.
But rest assured that God sees all. He knows all. And He is a just God.
Don’t fall to the temptation to strike back. Remember to leave revenge and justice to Him. And remember that you cannot control the other person, but you can control yourself and your responses. And you can most certainly pray for them, as well as yourself.
Also important is to realize that it’s not all the other person, is it? Step back and quiet yourself, and let the Holy Spirit convict you of your contribution to the situation. You could be enabling or accommodating unhealthy behavior. And, are you truly walking with God, or are you compromising in your outward walk?
Honor the Lord through humility and grace, even when you don’t feel the other person deserves it. (Easier said than done, right?) Forgive them, but don’t enable them…let it be known firmly but gently that you do not find their behavior helpful. The boundary line is now defined, and it is one that is likely to be contested. We are not here for a smooth ride, but one that will test and strengthen and build up grace and perseverance.
If you are doing your best to honor God through your interactions with the person, leave the rest up to God. Remember the long view that God sees. Continue to praise Him always, confess and repent of your sins, and petition Him with the desires and dreams He has placed in your heart. Obey Him and He will take care of the consequences. He is with you.
Leave a Reply