Answer With a Blessing (TT)

 

Normally I'll read either the NIV or the ESV, but seeing 1 Peter 3:9 from the NLT brings home the message of the verse with more impact for me.  Go ahead and compare the versions.  Here's the NLT:

"Don't repay evil for evil.  Don't retaliate when people say unkind things about you. Instead pay them back with a blessing.  That is what God wants you to do, and He will bless you for it."

So what do you think?

The 'don't retaliate' bit kinda punches me in the face 'cuz my human nature sure would love to verbally hit back; tit-for-tat.  But if you really want to retaliate, this verse says to

 "... pay them back with a blessing!"

Ha!  Did you choke on that?

Smirk.  God does have a sense of humor doesn't He!  No doubt the surprize of getting 'paid back' with a blessing instead of a 'curse' would make a positive impression that would be long-lasting.  At least it is to be hoped.

It may even jolt the first person to wonder why you are so strange.  Ha, ha, again.

'Normal' people would not use a blessing as a reaction in such cases.   This person may then ask why you did that.  You could then explain that you belong to Jesus and because of this you want to become more like Jesus.

Furthermore, such conversation could potentially lead that person to Christ.  So we need to pray and to let our "light so shine"  with Christian behavior that blesses and goes against the norm.  In this way we can give our Lord and Savior the honor and glory He deserves (see Matthew 5:16 ESV).

In the end, we too will be blessed by Him!  As the NIV states,

"... you may inherit a blessing."

We may also leave such a legacy for our children, grandchildren and others we meet.

So let's hold our tongues accountable and tame them by God's grace and the Holy Spirit freedom indwelling and working with us.  Try it.

Heavenly Father, we so appreciate You and the work You do within us through Your Holy Spirit's convictions and guidance. May we ever be willing and submissive to You especially in the area of our tongues.  Tame them, Father!  Don't let us retaliate in anger and verbal assaults, insults and curses but rather with the blessing that could only come from You.  Let us answer with a blessing.

Make us ever more like Christ.  In Jesus' name we ask.  Amen.

                                                      ~ERC  June 2025 ~

Based on 1 Peter 3:9 NLT.  Also, loosely based on 30 Days To Taming YOUR  Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, Seasons, along with Hillsong.