Heaping Up Those Burning Coals

“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.’” (Romans 12:18-20 NIV)

There are traditions in every religion which call adherents to defend their God.  Muslims, Hindus, and, yes, even some in realm of Christianity, feel called to take action in defense of their God or gods.

The Apostle Paul lived in similar times when people were quick to pull the trigger on defending their gods.  Acts 19:23-41 tells the story of a riot by the worshippers of the Greek goddess, Artemus.  They believed Paul and other Christians were blaspheming by advocating that Artemus was no god at all.  They rioted in defense of her deity.

So this passage is significant because of the times in which he lived and the times in which we live as well.  Paul is telling us that, unlike worshippers of other gods, we do not need to defend God or seek revenge on His behalf.  In fact, he takes it one step further.  Not only do we not need to defend God, we should respond with kindness rather than revenge toward those who are attacking Him. 

In the times that we now live, this should give us pause.  Who do we consider the enemies of God and how do we treat them?  Are we responding with thoughts, words, and actions of revenge?  Would we rather get back at them than be kind to them?  

Today, recognize the Lord is calling you to kindness toward His enemies rather than revenge.  He does not need you to come to His defense.  In due time He will set things right, but for now He wants you to start heaping up those burning coals of kindness on the heads of those against Him.  Sounds like a great plan.  

© Jim Musser 2017