The Odds of Getting Even

Genesis 27:41-45 – 41 From that time on, Esau hated Jacob because their father had given Jacob the blessing. And Esau began to scheme: “I will soon be mourning my father’s death. Then I will kill my brother, Jacob.” 42 But Rebekah heard about Esau’s plans. So she sent for Jacob and told him, “Listen, Esau is consoling himself by plotting to kill you. 43 So listen carefully, my son. Get ready and flee to my brother, Laban, in Haran. 44 Stay there with him until your brother cools off. 45 When he calms down and forgets what you have done to him, I will send for you to come back. Why should I lose both of you in one day?” (New Living Translation)

Walking Away from Revenge

• Resist acting on what comes __________________

2 Corinthians 5:17 – This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (New Living Translation)

Proverbs 24:29 – Don’t say to anyone, “I’ll get back at you for what you did to me. I’ll make you pay for what you did!” (The Message)

Proverbs 14:22 – Isn’t it obvious that conspirators lose out, while the thoughtful win love and trust? (The Message)

• Change your ________________________

2 Corinthians 10:3 – We do live in the world, but we do not fight in the same way the world fights. (New Century Version)

• Allow God to _____________________

Romans 12:19 – Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. (New Living Translation)

Proverbs 24:17-18 – 17 Don’t rejoice when your enemies fall; don’t be happy when they stumble. 18 For the Lord will be displeased with you and will turn his anger away from them. (New Living Translation)