Hate what is evil. Duh, who doesn't? Unless you're a satanist, maybe.
Of course, we hate what is evil. But the verse doesn't end there... cling to what is good.
'What is good?' you may ask, as we live in a world where there is plenty of confusion about biblical good and bad. The apostle Paul pretty much sums it up in verses 10-19 of that same chapter:
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. He goes on and on (very interesting and practical verses to read and do, by the way!) and then it comes... do not repay anyone evil for evil.
Hold on a minute here... we can't call for revenge? You gotta be kidding, right? 😕 Well, actually that's what it says. The chapter ends with verse 21:
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Easy? Nope. Possible? Yes, otherwise the Bible wouldn't call for it. It is exactly that verse I based my latest video series on. Sixteen videos (about 2 minutes each) about 'How to stay positive in a negative world'.
'Good' in Romans 12:21 doesn't necessarily mean good deeds or good works (as we may interpret it), but more like a postive quality, a moral quality. That is what the Greek word means. In other words making good quality choices on an everyday basis. When we consistently do so, we overcome evil!
👉Make sure to check out my video series on YouTube or my Instagram channel. You will love this series. The short and practical messages will encourage and inspire you!
I will be sure to check out your YouTube series, Marja. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteI would surely appreciate that Martha, thank you!
DeleteThat is so true Tracy, taking revenge is never satisfying, it makes things worse.
ReplyDelete