Give and TakeSample

At first glance, this proverb might sound like it's suggesting some passive-aggressive revenge. But that's not the case at all. The "burning coals" aren't about hurting someone else; they're about potentially sparking a change of heart. When we respond to hostility with kindness, it can be deeply unsettling for the other person. It can challenge their perception and lead to self-reflection.

This proverb guides us to a radical kind of love—one that doesn't just refrain from retaliation but actively seeks to meet the needs of those who've wronged us. It's about breaking the cycle of negativity with unexpected grace.

Today, think about someone you don’t get along with easily. What would it look like to meet a need in their life instead of holding a grudge? Take a small step toward this, even if it's just offering a genuine compliment, an encouragement, or even a smile.