See that no one repays evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good for one another and for all. 1 Thessalonians 5:15, TLV
Our verse today is taken from one of Paul’s earliest letters to the Thessalonians. It appears that the non-Jewish believers were being persecuted for their faith in Jesus by other Thessalonians, as the Jewish believers were by non-believing Jews. If you have an opportunity, reread this epistle, at least this chapter. Paul’s tone is gentle, pastoral, encouraging, as well as personal.
He encourages the newly redeemed children of our Heavenly Father that Yeshua’s return will be like a “thief in the night.” (vs. 2) But because they are children of the “Day” vs. 5, they are to be sober and vigilant in their walk (vs. 8).
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up—just as you in fact are doing. (vs. 11)
Then we come to today’s verse, and understanding the context of the great persecution they were under for their faith, this passage is all the more relevant to us. When someone “strikes” out at us and our faith, do we “strike” back? Do we lob Bible passages like fastballs with the intent of harming our attackers?
Social media has become a battlefield for many. I’ve seen a lot of fastballs being lobbed from both sides, that have only caused anger, not revelation. Paul was never one to pull any punches — to fellow believers — but in most circumstances, when he spoke to unbelievers he was gentle, logical, intelligent.
It’s not easy. I can’t say that my initial reaction when someone strikes at me, or especially my loved ones, I want to return the attack. But because I’m called to NOT respond in anger, I have to work hard to NOT throw my fastest fastball. Do I always succeed. Nope. Especially when the attack is against someone I love. So, I repent, and work at doing better.
By the way, I’m not talking about physical attacks. That’s another set of rules God gives us and is for another time.
Let’s try not to lob. At least try it today. See how we do. Then try again tomorrow. And again the day after that. See how much more peace we have, even in the midst of the battle.
