In our previous meditation, we learned that one of the causes of conflict in interpersonal relationships is misunderstanding. Jesus’ recommendation for this scenario is talking things over with the offending partner. The emphasis today is to look at another cause of irritation in dealing with people; that is, when there is malicious intent. In this situation, we are not dealing with grey areas, but when an individual or group or persons are set to hurt you on purpose. This sets up an occasion to test our values and beliefs. An unknown author said, “Your greatest test will be how you handle people who mishandled you.” Make no mistake about this, some will mishandle you; but what counts is how you respond.

Make no mistake about this, some will mishandle you; but what counts is how you respond. Our natural inclination is to pay people back in their own coin.

Our natural inclination is to pay people back in their own coin. However, Jesus has a different approach for this also. There are two ways He wants us to handle this, the first is to rejoice. “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:12 NKJV. Rejoice when you are being mishandled? Yes, rejoice because you are in good company. All the holy prophets of God were mishandled. That puts you in their class! Secondly, a believer should respond to unjust treatment with prayer. “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” Matthew 5:44 NKJV. These recommendations are a quick reminder that the life we now live is no longer natural; we have a supernatural life in Christ.