I just watched a short video interview of a young woman from Christian Aid Ministries. She said that they, (the group, family, and friends of those kidnapped in Haiti) forgive the captors. I would have had trouble understanding that if it weren’t for the stories I read just last night in “When Faith is Forbidden. 40 Days on the Frontlines with Persecuted Christians” by Todd Nettleton. Nettleton interviewed three women whose husbands were murdered seven weeks before. They all three forgave the killers. They knew the risks of planting churches in that country and knew it was what God called them to do. They also recognized that it was only because of the Holy Spirit that they were able to forgive the murderers.
What if we prayed for help in forgiving those who wrong us? Maybe you already do this. I just started about a year or two ago and it’s made a big difference. There are just some things that our human-sinful-nature persons can’t do apart from God. Actually, there’s nothing we can do apart from God (John 15:5).
Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, 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 so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12:17-21 ESV
See related content at my previous blog:
Vengeance is Not Mine
Please join me in praying every hour at ten till the hour for the victims of kidnapping. Pray for the speedy and safe release of the 17 missionaries in Haiti. Pray for the speedy and safe release of all kidnapped victims in Haiti. Pray for an end to these kidnappings, an end to the gang takeovers and violence in that country. Pray that the citizens of Haiti no longer need to live in constant fear. Pray for all kidnapped victims globally. Those who are imprisoned and those who have been released but still suffer from the experience. Pray for God to give wisdom to those in charge. Pray for peace.
