Trading an Ego for a Soul

(Proverbs 25:22 KJV)  For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee.

The Christian responds differently to adversity and hostility.  He does not act in the way that the world expects.  This is an analysis of the actions stated in the previous verse that talks about being considerate of our enemies.  The world says, “Payback!”  We say forgiveness.  The pagan culture calls for revenge.  We call for their redemption. 

Sometimes we do this simply because God has told us to.  Jesus is the one who said to turn the other cheek and go the extra mile.  On one level it is simply obedience.  This verse gives us a look into the forces at work.  When we respond with kindness it gives the Holy Spirit a chance to wake up the conscience that they have been sedating.  It gives God a chance to speak to ears that have been closed.  It sets the stage for redemption.

So?  What is at stake is not your ego, it is their soul.  Defuse, don’t escalate.  God is not really interested in vengeance but will see justice applied where grace isn’t.