"See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone." 1 Thessalonians 5:15 (ESV)

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Paul assumes that, both within they body of Christ and outside of the body of Christ, there will be people who commit evil towards us. When that happens, we are not to respond in kind nor ignore the offense. Rather, Paul tells us to pursue good for one another.

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The Greek word for "seek" means to move rapidly and decisively towards something. Paul isn't painting a picture of simply tolerating that person but of passionately running toward what is good for them - not because they deserve it, but because the gospel shouts for it. I am so grateful that Jesus did not repay evil for evil, but chose to move rapidly and decisively toward sacrificing Himself for our salvation.

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Here's your challenge for today. Think about a person in your life, who committed evil toward you. Today, pray that God would shower them with His kindness and goodness. Then pursue something for their good. Pick up the phone and call them, write them a letter, send them a text, or get on Facebook and tell them the Lord brought them to mind and you prayed for them today. Encourage them. Pursue them. Be Christ to them.

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PRAYER: Dear Father, today I respond to your incredible love and grace toward me by extending it to those who have done evil toward me. Thank you for not repaying my evil with evil, but for seeking my good through Jesus' sacrifice. Through the power of Your Spirit, give me the strength to seek the good of those who have sought to harm me. Open my eyes to an opportunity to seek their good in a specific way today. In Jesus' Name I pray, amen.