“See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.” 1 Thessalonians 5:15.

The expression ‘tit for tat’ is an old English term that means responding to someone’s action with the same force; in like manner or equivalent retaliation. Some would even say, “You get what you give”—a strike-back-and-give-it-all-you-got mentality. 

Consider this quote: “A campfire can only burn as long as someone is throwing logs on it. But as soon as you stop fueling the fire, eventually it will go out. The same is true with our words. If you stop fueling an argument, it will stop too!” -Victoria O’Steen.

Retaliation is a natural and worldly reaction to a problem or altercation, but the word of God guides the born-again believer in our actions and thoughts. In 1 Thessalonians 5:15, the apostle Paul admonishes us against the tendency to retaliate: “See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.”

Yet we all know it is not easy to turn the other cheek, look the other way, and think good thoughts when every opposing thought, word, or action is coming straight at you. But listen to Proverbs 15:1: “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” Not an easy feat, right?

How then does this become possible? I am so glad you ask. Romans chapter 8:14 gives us these words of assurance: “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” Every born-again believer has been indwelt with the Holy Spirit. He empowers us with love, grace, forbearance, kindness, tender-heartedness, and forgiveness, leading us to live Christ-like!

The power of God enables us to make the right choices to listen, obey, and follow His leading, instead of what some would choose to do and say: “Lay my religion down.” That is not from the love of God that lives within us; love goes beyond selfish motives.

Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.

My friends, we who are Christ’s should never seek a tit-for-tat attitude in solving conflicts. Rather, let us look ever unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who gives us peace and strength to run this race in victory! 

So let us seek to give God the glory and follow where He leads in every situation, and they’ll know we are Christians by our love! “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35.  

God’s blessings and peace. Remain steadfast in the faith!