HIS Kind of Love: Turn the Other Cheek
We’ve all heard the saying to “turn the other cheek” but that is much easier said than done.
When I was in an abusive relationship, I turned one cheek to the other cheek and back to
Jesus commands us to turn the other cheek
the first one and the pattern continued. I can’t tell you how many times I called out to God “how much more?”
What I find interesting at the beginning of the “turn the other cheek” in Matthew 5, “But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” {Matthew 5:39}
I can’t tell you how many times I wish I’d resisted the temptation and manipulation this individual had on my life.
Thankfully God pulled me out of that terrible situation.
Even Jesus was tempted by Satan
Sometimes it’s difficult to see the evil right away, but I’ve discovered that the more I search God’s heart the easier it becomes to see the red flags.
But does that mean I never encounter difficult people again?
Absolutely not! I’ve encountered many on my path in life.
I have a client who can be a prima dona at times. Everything is about this person.
I’ve learned lessons on how to handle difficult situations from this individual. That doesn’t mean that the situation was easy or I always agreed she was always right. Yet, I turned the other cheek. Even when I didn’t want to at times.
Just as the angels attended to Jesus in His time of temptation so will we be tended to when we seek Him through prayer
I turned to the only place I knew I could turn. That was to God in prayer. I know that without His help I could not have shown the grace that was required in this circumstance.
I also had to swallow my pride on more than one occasion and humble myself to the situation. In the long run, I was able to grow as a person when placed in this setting.
Luke also shared Jesus words in the sixth chapter when he says, “If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them.” {Luke 6:29}
Turning the other cheek isn’t easy. Often it’s the last thing we want to do.
God does not want us to seek revenge
Regardless of whether we feel we are right or wrong, God tells us to turn the other cheek. However, he goes the extra step and tells us to not even withhold our shirt from an evil person.
He wants us to extend grace and mercy. When reading this it sounds as if God wants us to be run over. Maybe in some situations He allows that to happen.
God does not want us to seek revenge. Sometimes our mind works in overdrive coming up with ideas, but that is the last thing He wants.
However, I also know that God promises us He will see to justice. “Do not take revenge,
Instead we are to love our fellow brother and turn the other cheek
my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.” {Romans 12:19 NIV}
Sometimes I wonder when and how God will repay and avenge a situation. Yet, I hear Him whispering that is none of my business. I have to let go, forgive and move on and leave it in His hands. Oh, how I wish it was as easy as it sounds, but I’ve discovered it is always a process for me.
I don’t know about you, but the only way I can do this is with the help of God Almighty!
How do you turn the other cheek?
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