Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.
Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join James, a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life's biggest questions and helps us find God's solutions to life's struggles. Learn the power of living by God's grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are on a search for freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!
Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.
Don't Take Revenge (Romans 12:9-21)
During today's episode of Lessons for Life, we'll focus on three practical steps to integrate these teachings into our everyday lives: surrendering our desire for revenge, showing kindness to those who've wronged us, and trusting in God's perfect justice. I'll share heartfelt prayers, personal insights, and actionable guidance to help you break free from the cycle of vengeance and move towards a more grace-filled existence. Don't miss this chance to transform your perspective and embrace the freedom that comes from walking in God's love. Visit jameslongjr.org for more resources and join our community for ongoing support and transformation.
ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE
Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!
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It's easy to want to retaliate when someone wrongs us, but as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. In Romans, chapter 12, paul reminds us that vengeance belongs to God. Our role is to overcome evil by doing good, trusting that God will bring justice in His perfect timing. Instead of seeking to get even, we are called to display Christ's love through acts of kindness and forgiveness, even toward our enemies. Well, hello, my name is James Long Jr. I'm a pastor, counselor and university professor. Welcome to Lessons for Life, where I help people whose pain from their past or their present is influencing their perspective on life Through teaching them about a person, the Lord Jesus Christ, principles and promises from God's word and giving them a pathway for change. My goal is to guide you towards peace, hope and joy. In today's lesson, we will be exploring the topic do not take revenge and seeing how God's truth can transform our lives. If you're ready to experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Christ alone, you are in the right place. Well, the passage of scripture for today is found in Romans, chapter 12, verses 19 through 21. It says this Beloved, never avenge yourself, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written. Vengeance is mine and I will repay, says the Lord. To the contrary, if your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink, for by doing so, you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Here's the devotional thought.
Speaker 1:As believers, we are called to reflect God's character in our interactions with others, including those who wrong us. Paul urges us not to take matters into our own hands when we've been hurt. Instead of seeking revenge, we are to trust that God will bring justice. This doesn't mean that we ignore wrongdoing, but rather that we leave it in the hands of God. He knows the hearts of all people and will deal with wrongdoers in His time. Our focus should be on responding in love, even when it is difficult. When we extend kindness to those who hurt us, we are demonstrating the love and forgiveness that Christ showed to us. The phrase heaping burning coal on his head refers to a practice in ancient times, where burning coals were carried as a sign of repentance. By responding to the wrongs with kindness, we may lead our enemies to feel remorse and turn to God in repentance. May lead our enemies to feel remorse and turn to God in repentance. Ultimately, our goal is to overcome evil with good, reflecting the grace and mercy that we ourselves have received from God, bringing it home, applying what we've learned.
Speaker 1:Three points Number one surrender your desires for revenge. Reflect on any situations where you may have been wronged and give your desires for revenge over to God. Number two show kindness to your enemy Instead of seeking to retaliate. Find ways to extend love and kindness to those who have wronged you. Number three trust in God's justice. Remember that God sees all things and will bring justice in his time. Your role is to respond with love and grace.
Speaker 1:Well, let us pray, lord. Help me to trust in your perfect justice when I am wronged. Give me the strength to respond with love rather than revenge. Teach me to overcome evil with good, just as you have shown me through your son, jesus Christ. In his precious name, we pray Amen. Well, thank you for joining me today. If you found this lesson helpful, I encourage you to explore more resources and support on my website, jameslongjrorg that's jameslongjrorg. There you can also join our Lessons for Life monthly membership or our online group coaching program, where you will find powerful coaching videos, a supportive community and step-by-step guidance for lasting transformation. Remember true change is possible when you walk in God's grace and for His glory. Until next time may you find peace, hope and joy in Christ alone. Blessings.
