JULY 29, 2021 CAC LIVING WATER DEVOTIONAL : TOPIC – CONSEQUENCE OF REWARDING EVIL FOR GOOD.

It is sin to repay evil for evil, for vengeance belongs to God *(Rom. 12:17)*. But it is even worse to repay evil for good, for that shows a brutish and devilish heart. The consequences for such vile conduct are certain – God will severely judge the perpetrator with perpetual trouble. This truth is illustrated in the life of David, who reward Uriah’s integrity and faithfulness with evil.

David was guilty of committing adultery with Bathsheba, Uriah’s wife. He was also guilty of getting her pregnant. His invitation to Uriah was not one given honestly – but was a cover for getting Uriah to sleep with his wife as a cover for David’s immorality. When this ploy did not work, David then had Uriah placed at the frontlines of the battle, to be withdrawn from and killed. Uriah fell in battle along with several of David’s men faithfully fighting by his side. David’s household paid dearly for David’s treachery. His two oldest son’s died violent deaths, as a result. One of his grandchildren was raped, and 10 of his concubines were raped in broad daylight, in front of the entire nation, by his own very son who also took from him his kingdom, who later died for his own treachery. Consider the confession and dedication of the innocent Uriah (II Sam. 11:8-11)

Paul admonished Christians to reward good for evil, to love their enemies, bless those that curse them; do good to those that hate them, and pray for those that despitefully use and persecute them *(Matt. 5:43-48; Rom. 12:17-21)*. The Lord does not look kindly on one who receives good but returns evil for it. We are told that for such one, evil will not depart from his house. God would deliberately allow evil to visit his household, so that he can feel the pain of being betrayed or stabbed in the back.

Is there anyhow you are biting the hands that fed you or dealing treacherously with those who have shown you kindness in anyway? You better make amends, now, lest you face the music, immediately and ultimately.

1. Lord Jesus, give me the grace to always reward good for evil, rather than evil for good.

2. Holy Spirit, help me never to contemplate personal vengeance, but always remember that vengeance is of You.

3. Let us pray for all our leaders against the evil spirit of rewarding evil for good under any circumstances.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Job 19:20 – 21:24; Acts 23:9 – 23:30.