Page 254 - Pleasant Words from the Gospe

Pleasant Words from the Gospel

Abstaining from Evil

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is light
in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on
you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my
friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is
mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary:
"If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him
something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals
on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil
with good. (Romans, 12:17-21)

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander,
along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to
one another, forgiving each other... (Ephesians, 4:31-32)

If it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the
needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let
him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheer-
fully. Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is
good. (Romans, 12:8-9)

Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so preva-

lent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save
you. (James, 1:21)

Do not repay evil with
evil or insult with in-
sult, but with bless-
ing, because to this
you were called

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