Today’s scripture: Genesis 34 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (James Hendrix):
My friend Evan went through a bitter divorce a few years ago. Left on the brink of financial ruin, Evan vowed revenge on his former wife. One day Evan called and asked if I would meet him at a nearby restaurant for lunch. At the restaurant, he flew into a rage about how difficult life had become for him. He had tried to be a good husband, he said, but now he felt betrayed. His goal, Evan said, was to make his former wife’s life miserable, just as she had made his.
After his outburst, Evan asked me what I thought he should do. “Forgive her and forget about revenge,” I said. Evan looked at me and shook his head. “Never,” he said. I reminded him of the Bible’s commands about revenge and an unwillingness to forgive, but Evan refused to listen. We talked an hour more about bitterness and how it can destroy people. Still, Evan would not yield. Finally, I realized that none of my words would change his attitude or behavior. Instead of trying to persuade Evan to change, I decided to pray for him each day and allow God to work in him.
In today’s Scripture, we see an example of how hurt, pain, and destruction are often consequences of an unforgiving and vengeful heart. Although Simeon and Levi may have been right in seeking justice after Shechem raped their sister, they were wrong to seek revenge.
Just as we have experienced God’s grace and forgiveness, we also must be willing to love and forgive others — even those who have hurt us. Today, make the decision to forgive, ask God to work in your life, and then allow the Lord to heal you.
Prayer for the day: Lord, free me from having an unforgiving and vengeful spirit. Amen.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.