“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
— 1 Peter 3:9 (NIV)
One of the most profound truths of Christianity is that its values often appear foolish to the world. To the natural mind, it makes no sense to repay evil with good, yet this is exactly what Jesus taught His disciples to do. Our anchor verse shows the Apostle Peter passing down this same teaching, reminding us that it is not optional but central to our calling in Christ.
Jesus Himself declared:
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.”
— Matthew 5:44–45 (KJV)
God sets the example for us: He shows kindness even to those who do not acknowledge Him. In the same way, we are called to respond to hatred, insults, and injustice with blessing, kindness, and love.
The Apostle Paul also emphasizes this principle:
“Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.”
— Romans 12:17–19 (KJV)
The reason we leave vengeance to God is because only He is perfectly holy and righteous. Human anger cannot produce God’s righteousness (James 1:20). When we retaliate, we step outside God’s will, but when we bless instead of curse, we reflect His character and unlock His blessings in our lives.
If you are reading this and struggling with bitterness or the desire to retaliate, let today be the day you release that person into God’s hands. Not only release them, but choose to pray for them, bless them, and even do good to them as the Lord gives you grace. This is how we truly overcome evil with good.
Prayer:
Father, I thank You for Your Word that teaches me to walk in love even when wronged. Help me to release every hurt and choose forgiveness over revenge. Empower me by Your Spirit to repay evil with good and to live as a true child of my heavenly Father. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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