What is your knee-jerk reaction when someone insults you?

Retaliation is a dangerous weapon. But the type of retaliation that becomes a Godly lever is revealed by Peter:

“Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will grant you his blessing.” (1 Peter 3:9 NLT)

When we answer an insult, we lose energy. Most of us are running low on energy so we don’t have much to waste. I suppose it makes us feel better if we can deliver a sharp retort. But do we ever feel better when that happens?

Peter offers inspired advice. “Don’t retaliate with insults. Instead, pay them back with a blessing.”

Focus on something good about the person and speak it. Offer a compliment.

Dust your shoes, move on and guard your heart.

The verse ends with a powerful punch.

God called us to bless others, even those who treat us poorly. The reward for a blessing is blessings from Him.

Less retaliation, more blessing.

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