Mercy – Not Revenge – Is Sweet

When Samson lost his new wife, he immediately responded by seeking revenge. Revenge for him was to burn every field of grain, all vineyards and olive groves of those who were the object of his rage. Revenge was not justice, but an act of violence meant to satisfy rage.   

In this state, Samson was driven to do what his brain instructed, no matter how destructive. In these moments of rage nothing can dissuade a person to change their mind. Only after the adrenaline subsides is it possible to make a limited analysis of what transpired.

When that moment arrives, fear creates the compulsion to hide, but Psalm 139 explains there is no escaping God's presence. "Where can I go from your Spirit Lord? You know all I do. You’re around me on every side; your powerful arm protects me." What God did to redeem and give us a new beginning and to free us from the bondage of sin, he did out of great love and mercy. Praise God for the love and mercy of Christ Jesus. 

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God was merciful! We were dead because of our sins, but God loved us so much that he made us alive with Christ, and God’s wonderful kindness is what saves you.

~Ephesians 2:4-5 Contemporary English Version

 

Let us therefore approach the throne of God with greatest confidence, that we may receive mercy for our failures and grace to help in the hour of need.

~Hebrews 4:16 Phillips – New Testament in Modern English

 

For if you forgive other people their failures, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you will not forgive other people, neither will your Father forgive you your failures.

~Matthew 5:14-15 Phillips – New Testament in Modern English

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Chasing the Winds of Jealousy and Envy

The pursuit of jealousy’s demands is comparable to chasing the wind. Can you imagine someone chasing the wind, trying to capture it for some emotional purpose? Solomon observed that "all labor and all achievements spring from man's jealousy of his neighbors." He added, “This is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.” 

Rachel's jealousy pushed her to outdo her sister, win at any cost, even destroying the bond of love that may have existed. Jealousy moves in progressive steps, spiraling ever upward, gaining intensity and power over rational and sensible thinking. When jealousy spirals into rage, turning back may become impossible.

It's critical to get immediate control of jealousy. Jealousy can be managed, so never let the sun go down harboring it in your thoughts and feelings. Acknowledge its presence and root by confessing it, then repent and turn away from it. Seek forgiveness by turning it over to God. He will heal you of this sickness.