The End Never Justifies the Means

“It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” Throughout every step of your life have you done the right thing, in the right way, in the eyes of God and man?

February’s Awakening, Day 24

As we forgive, we achieve the right to be forgiven.

As we forgive, we increase our capacity for light and understanding.

As we forgive, we live beyond the power of the adversary.

 —Robert L. Simpson  

Doing an injury puts you below your enemy;

Revenging one makes you but even with him;

Forgiving it sets you above him.

 —Benjamin Franklin 

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:14–21 NIV   

For we know him who said, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” and again, “The Lord will judge his people.” It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Hebrews 10:30–31 NIV

            As believers, we have a very high standard and level of character and integrity to live by. Is your life a true reflection of God and all that is good? Are your intentions pure, righteous, and always acting in the best interest of others? Has everything you’ve done and accomplished been so in an exemplary and noble fashion? Have you rejoiced in the victories of others who have received when you were slighted? Have you truly forgiven those who have wronged you and have seemingly gained much at your expense with no apparent consequence to them?

            Do not compromise or demean your character to the lowest level of the most despicable, obnoxious, abrasive personality that you know or that your mind could fathom. Do the right thing regardless and let God righteously balance the scales. Forgiveness is one of the most freeing and releasing attributes that you can display and always live comfortably with. At some point, God will make it right. You don’t want to be that person who falls into the hands of the living God—for it is a dreadful thing.