Scripture
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Rom 12:21)
Observation
We can choose how we respond to evil, we are not helpless pawns but are children of the King. We can decide not to be overcome by evil, it does not have to swamp us. Evil may, however, surround us but we can be assured that God is with us in every situation. He strengthens us and helps us make wise decisions. We may, at times, be tempted by evil and even weaken but we are not to be overcome or destroyed.
The response we are to make to evil is NOT just to deny it power over our lives but to take our response further and destroy it. We can destroy evil and the antidote to it is to practise that which is good. When we are attacked, we are to love in return. When someone holds back blessing we are to release blessings. When we hear gossip then we are to render it powerless.
This is an amazing message, it is the higher way and in fact the only way. We destroy the power of evil in our lives and in others by showing goodness and we limit the effect of evil in our lives by not giving it room.
Application
I need to deny evil the rights to my life, I can limit its power in my life. I can go further than that and destroy the power of evil by overcoming evil with good. This is something that I need to practise in my life and in my encounters with others.
Prayer
Lord, help me overcome evil by doing the opposite – good. Give me the strength to lean on You and not be swamped by evil, in Jesus name, amen.
David Goodwin