Breaking the Cycle of Retaliation | Wednesday
Devotional
From our earliest days, we’ve been conditioned to respond in kind—if someone hurts us, we hurt them back. This eye-for-an-eye mentality is deeply ingrained in our human nature. Yet Jesus calls us to break this cycle of retaliation.
When Jesus instructs us to love our enemies and do good to those who hate us, He’s not suggesting we become doormats or remain in abusive situations. Rather, He’s inviting us to participate in a revolutionary way of living that refuses to let others’ actions dictate our responses.
This doesn’t mean ignoring injustice or pretending wrongs haven’t occurred. Instead, it means choosing to respond from a place of God’s strength rather than our wounded pride. It means refusing to let hatred have the final word in our relationships.
When we bless those who curse us and pray for those who mistreat us, we’re not just affecting those relationships—we’re being transformed ourselves. We’re allowing God to reshape our hearts and free us from the prison of bitterness and resentment that retaliation creates.
Bible Verse
“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” – Luke 6:27-28
Reflection Question
Think about someone who has hurt or offended you recently. What would it look like to respond with blessing rather than retaliation in that specific situation?
Quote
Since you were in kindergarten, you have been trained to retaliate. Like, that is what is in your bones. You have been trained to retaliate.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I’ve chosen retaliation over love. Give me the strength to break cycles of hurt by responding with blessing instead of cursing. Help me to see my enemies through Your eyes and to trust You with justice in my relationships. In Jesus’ name, amen.