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Matthew 5:38-39
You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth. ’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.
Lex Talionis. The Law of Retaliation. An eye for an eye. A tooth for a tooth. A hand for a hand. A foot for a foot. Retaliation. You hurt me, I will hurt you back.
That was the world into which Jesus entered. The Law of Retaliation was given because revenge was rampant. The law was not given as a remedy but for restraint, not a cure but for control. Then Jesus came and wiped the law off the books.
Jesus was not instructing us to refuse to stand for our rights or become human punching bags. The instruction is for believers to refrain from selfish retaliation and let God take care of the situation. Be willing to lay down your rights in order for others to see Him work through you. Don’t respond in a way that makes you look smaller than the one who started the exchange. God’s got your back. Let Him cover for you.
Father, in my flesh I want to strike back. Help me respond as Jesus would. Help me demonstrate Your power at work in my heart. Help me honor You in all my responses. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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