A New Day

By: Pastor Johnie Akers 

Romans 12:21, “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” One of Abraham Lincoln’s most outspoken political enemies was a man named Edwin J. Stanton. Stanton called Lincoln a “low cunning clown” and the “original gorilla.” He even said this, “It is ridiculous for people to go to Africa to see a gorilla, when they could find one easily in Springfield, Illinois.” To Lincoln’s credit, he never responded to these insults. Yet, when he was elected President, Lincoln chose Stanton to be his Secretary of War. When asked why, Lincoln said, “Because he is the best man!” Later, when Lincoln had been assassinated, Stanton stood by the coffin which contained Lincoln’s body and said through his tears, “There lays the greatest ruler of men the world has ever seen.” Patient love in action won this man over in the end! So, friend, how do you respond to your critics? When reviled, it is so easy to retaliate with more venom. But that usually begins a vicious cycle that in the end damages both parties. “Getting even” is a myth. In Luke 6:31, Jesus said, “And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.” Jesus didn’t say they would do back to you what you’ve done for then, He just directs us to treat everyone as we would want them to treat us. Whether they reciprocate is between them and the Lord. Where, then, is the reward? In Ephesians 6:8, Paul said, “Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord.” Ah, there is the answer. If I treat someone as I want to be treated, my reward should not be expected from them, but the Lord will bless me, whether or not the other party does. This is not the way of the world, but this is the way of the citizens of the Kingdom of God. So today, be the better person. Take the high road. God has promised He will reward us for doing so. It is with this attitude of love and grace that we can change the most untoward words and actions of others, into the blessedness of a new day.