The Key to Dealing with Hurts

“But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Whoever hits you on the cheek, offer him the other also; and whoever takes away your coat, do not withhold your shirt from him either. Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back. Treat others the same way you want them to treat you. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners in order to receive back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. Do not judge, and you will not be judged; and do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; pardon, and you will be pardoned.” Luke 6:27-37

Has someone mistreated you? Has someone done something to hurt you? More than likely you have recalled the incident and individual with whom you have had your latest confrontation. It’s not pleasant, is it?

Unfortunately, in this world we have “run-ins” with others, and our feelings get hurt. But how we respond is of great importance. Do you want to get even? Hurt them back? Make them pay for your emotional pain? Be careful. There sometimes is a fine line between anger and hatred. Unresolved anger will hurt you while hatred will destroy you.

The key to dealing with our hurts and injustices? Forgiveness. It is Christ’s standard prescription when it comes to the hurts we encounter. Christ Jesus wants to forgive and love them through you. We know that unforgiveness also prohibits the free flow of God’s forgiveness toward us. Forgive and you will be forgiven (Matthew 6:14-15).

Will you allow your anger to kindle a fire of resentment and hate in your heart? Or will you exercise the wonderful implement of forgiveness and release its cool, healing ointment? It is your choice: anger and hate - or forgiveness and peace.