Through the Bible: 1st SamuelSample

Dealing with Enemies: To Retaliate or Not to Retaliate?

And the men of David said to him, “Here is the day of which the LORD said to you, ‘Behold, I will give your enemy into your hand, and you shall do to him as it shall seem good to you.’” Then David arose and stealthily cut off a corner of Saul's robe. And afterward David's heart struck him, because he had cut off a corner of Saul's robe. He said to his men, “The LORD forbid that I should do this thing to my lord, the LORD's anointed, to put out my hand against him, seeing he is the LORD's anointed.”

1 Samuel 24: 4 – 6 (ESV)

Have you been in a situation where you feel attacked or hurt by unkind people? I am sure, in those moments, thoughts of revenge or retaliation would have crossed our minds. We believe we are entitled to the last word and revenge will make us feel better.

However, God wants us to resist the urge to retaliate. Jesus in Matt. 5: 39 advised the people not to retaliate: “if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” 

In the story of David and Saul, Saul was jealous of David’s popularity, and in his insecurity and fear, Saul searched desperately for David in order to kill him. Eventually, Saul was delivered into David’s hands. With Saul in a vulnerable position, David chose to exercise restraint, surrender to God and refrain from retaliation against Saul.

We need to learn from David, to respond in a manner that we are different from the world. 

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, help me to be strong when under attack. Instead of responding in anger, remind me to pray for my enemies. To pray for your blessing and peace over them. Help me never to retaliate nor repay evil with evil, but to always turn from evil and do good. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.