Matthias Stom’s depiction of Jesus before Caiaphas at night based on Mark 14 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
1 Peter 2:20-24 (KJV)
21 …Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: 22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: 23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: 24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
When Accused, Jesus Was Humble
What a marvelous, new, and incredible identity God forged for us by the example of Jesus. He is humility supreme and wisdom without end! Matchless mercy and graces innumerable are found in Him. Glory to the Most High GOD!! When reviled, our LORD did not abuse His power by reviling again. Jesus has shown us that restraint is a very important use of power. Restraint from exacting vengeance and rendering blow for blow or even no more than an eye for an eye is obedience to the word of God, which says that vengeance belongs to God alone (Deuteronomy 35:35). It is a great day when others can say that there is no guile in your mouth.
Why You Can’t “Fix It”
When I seek to “take care of things” I am like a blind man who tries to build a house without help and instructions. How dare we cast our eyes to “fix” another when we cannot fix ourselves? Human vengeance is a great wickedness and a dark stain on the soul. Christians must let God handle all things, even when it comes to matters of vengeance, because our anger can never be used by God to deliver His righteous justice. This is because “Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires” (New Living Translation, ©2007).
Humility Is Strength
Being content that vengeance belongs to God and being guileless does not mean that we are doormats. On the contrary. Children of God must stay vigilant and discerning. We should guard our hearts with all diligence and have the mind of Christ. This is not a passive existence. Rather, it is a life that vigorously resists evil. The stripes of Jesus heals us to live a righteous life – free from the burdens of self-righteousness, grudges, resentments, and thoughts of vengeance. Because the Son has set us free, we are free indeed (John 8:36)!
May these words educate and comfort you today. Until we meet again: “Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” (Ephesians 6:10)
Your friend in Christ,
– Verneda
Twitter handle: @vlights
© 2013 Verneda Lights. All Rights Reserved.
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