Life is full of different relationships. Because every person is unique, each relationship is also one-of-a-kind.
There are, however, some general tones to our interactions with others; these often depend on our individual roles. The way we act toward family and the way we behave with friends is not the same. The hug we give our significant other and the hug we give a child is not the same.
Sometimes, relationships are challenging and seem like a hassle. Certainly, relationships can cause much confusion and frustration. Even so, life is about relationships and people; God is about relationships and people. And there is much joy to be found in our relations with others.
The interactions of people in Scripture serve as excellent relational advice for our own lives. From foreign relations to our relationship with the Father, the Bible covers it all. Every story, record, and verse in the Word carries principles that enable us to live the life God has called us to.
Today, we’ll be looking at a specific type of relations: Relations with Foes.
"Once more he asked them, 'Who are you looking for?' And again they replied, 'Jesus the Nazarene.' 'I told you that I AM he,' Jesus said. 'And since I am the one you want, let these others go.' He did this to fulfill his own statement: 'I did not lose a single one of those you have given me.' Then Simon Peter drew a sword and slashed off the right ear of Malchus, the high priest’s slave. But Jesus said to Peter, 'Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup of suffering the Father has given me?'" (John 18:7-11, NLT)
When confronted with danger, a natural response is to fight it or to run away. Jesus did neither. He stepped forward and submitted Himself as the Sacrifice for us all.
He could have defeated his enemies right then and there; He didn’t. He could have lashed out in hatred or anger; He didn’t.
He could have slipped away as He had done before with hostile crowds; He didn’t do that either.
In bravery and compassion, Jesus remained the same person and Savior that He always was.
Peter’s response, on the other hand, was to pull out his sword and attack. In all four Gospel accounts of this scene, Jesus squelches the violent impulses of his disciples.
A movement that did not start with violence and was not run by force would not end in violence or force.
This is not to say that self-defense or fighting for a cause is evil; the point is simply that opposition did not change God’s plan or His heart.
When foes (be it people or circumstances) come against you, do not let them change you. Whatever you do, however you respond, let it be from who you are, not from fear or pressure.
Walk in your authority and the peace that has been given to you. Let your decisions be based on your character, not your emotions. Who you are is more powerful than any weapon. Whatever you do, be true to yourself, and fight for who God says you are.
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