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a different kind of giving back



What do you give back to people who give you grief or stress or struggle?  It is easy to give back what we are given.  In other words, when people give you a hard time, you give them a hard time.  The world says that is fine.  God says something different.

So take a few minutes to think through this.  We Jesus followers ought to be givers of grace.  We should not be known as just takers or free-loaders, if you know what that means.  When we are in a difficult place with ourselves or with others, answer with kindness and be a blessing.

God gives us some insight and reason for this that I read in my devotion today!

Romans 12:17-21  NLT
Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. 18 Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.  19 Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say,“I will take revenge;I will pay them back,” says the Lord.  20 Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them.  If they are thirsty, give them something to drink.In doing this, you will heapburning coals of shame on their heads.”  21 Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.

May our lives be gifts to those around us of what God has given.  We have been given good that we don’t deserve.

May we choose the high road or grace instead of taking revenge or being unkind.  Grace is something that changes things and changes people.

What are you giving back to others?

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