Pause
For today, we suggest pausing in the way of worship. Music, God-focused lyrics, and singing together are Biblical ways the church has worshiped for centuries! Consider using one of the songs from our own worship team, Victory House Worship’s Lean In:
“I come sit at Your feet
And I bring You all that I am
You meet me here on my knees
And You give me all that You are”
The song can be found at this link, and lyrics can be found in the description box below the video.
Let the lyrics become a prayer from your own heart. Remind yourself that God sits above all the issues of your life, and do what you were created for: enjoy His presence and give Him glory!
Reset
Matthew 5:38-42 New International Version
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”
Walk with God
What stood out to you from Jesus’s words today? Did an example from your own life come to mind? Sit with the Lord for a moment to see what He may be saying to you.
Have you ever wanted to get even, to pay someone back for what they did to you?
It’s easy to think of examples from childhood, but what about recent times when you felt you were treated unfairly by a friend or coworker? How did you handle any thoughts of wanting to get even?
Can you imagine being slapped and choosing to not slap in response? That is what Jesus is saying here. No retaliation. None. How can this impact your interactions today or any interaction that’s been on your mind recently?
Reminder: this section is from the same passage where Jesus announced His fulfillment of the law. Your perfect behavior when it comes to retaliation will not earn you a relationship with God. Welcome Him into your relational tensions, the situations where you feel unjustly treated, and receive His grace, wisdom, and peace.