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At first glance, this wisdom from Paul’s letter to the Romans feels easy to shake off. It’s easy to think this doesn’t apply to us. Why? Because words like “pay back” and “evil” feel like they don’t apply to us. Well, that’s when we have to dig deeper. We have to get real. Our instinct is to pay back. When we’re hurt, we want others to hurt. When they cause us pain, we don’t want them to get away with it. So, what do we do? We pay back. Sure, it may not feel openly or overtly “evil,” but the things we do to others in the name of pain and revenge are meant to cause harm. They’re meant to cause the same (or worse!) harm to the person who hurt us first. The result? A cycle of harm that never ends.

The truth is Paul’s words were written for all of us because this is a human instinct. He’s reminding us all to choose a better way when it comes to conflict—a way that leads to healing, happiness, and freedom for us all. A way that resolves conflict with God’s best in mind. This week, memorize this short verse. Let it be the reminder you need to help you respond to conflict in a better way!