“Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.”
Called to Bless, Not to Curse
The world teaches us to fight back, to defend ourselves, and to make sure no one takes advantage of us. But Christ calls us to something higher. Through Peter’s words, God commands us not to repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but instead to bless others—even those who wrong us. This is not just a suggestion; it is our calling as followers of Jesus.
Why would God ask this of us? Because He Himself has done it first. When we were sinners, enemies of God, He did not strike us down. Instead, He sent His Son to bear our sins, to be reviled and mocked, to suffer injustice—and to respond with love. On the cross, Jesus did not curse those who crucified Him; He prayed for them, saying, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). In Christ, we see what true blessing looks like.
As those redeemed by Jesus’ blood, we now live differently. When others treat us unfairly, we do not need to seek revenge, for we know that God is our defender. Instead, we follow Jesus in blessing others, knowing that He has promised a greater blessing to those who trust in Him. This is not weakness; it is the strength of faith, trusting that God’s justice and grace are sufficient.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you bless someone today, even if they have wronged you?
- In what ways does Jesus’ response to suffering shape your own attitude toward those who mistreat you?
Prayer:
Gracious Father, You have called me to a life of blessing, not of retaliation. Teach me to trust in Your justice and to respond to others with grace, just as Christ has shown grace to me. Help me to love my enemies, pray for those who persecute me, and reflect Your goodness in all I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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