Turning The Other Cheek

Matthew 5:39 But I tell you, do not fight with the man who wants to fight. Whoever hits you on the right side of the face, turn so he can hit the other side also. (NLV)

The disciple realizes that it is his Lord's honour that is at stake in his life, not his own honour.
                                                                                                                                                        ~Oswald Chambers


I have to admit; this is a tough one to live out. Self-defense is an instinct. After all, "They deserved it." When I have been insulted, hurt, or have experienced injustice, my instinct has always been to return evil for evil. That was, until the day I realized that in doing so, Satan was using me - against Jesus. 

As I prayed to be more of what Jesus wanted me to be, my need for delivering "justice" began to fade away.  - Oh, I don't get me wrong. I still  feel  those same feelings. But inviting the Holy Spirit to guard my heart, my attitude (and my mouth) and allowing Him to lead me prevents me from actin on them. - Most of the time anyway. God is definitely not through with his work on me.... and I just have to continue to allow Him to do so.

To the saint personal insult becomes the occasion of revealing the incredible sweetness of the Lord Jesus. 
                                                                                                                                                 ~Oswald Chambers

"Experience the incredible sweetness of the Lord Jesus." - That's what I want to do.