What if the most powerful response to hostility isn't revenge but radical kindness? Day 181 of Faith for Every Day tackles one of Scripture's most challenging commands from Romans 12:20 – showing kindness to our enemies.
We all know the natural response when someone hurts or betrays us: fight back, avoid them, or wish them harm. But God's way turns this instinct on its head. The puzzling phrase "heap coals of fire on his head" isn't about punishment at all – it's about awakening conscience through unexpected compassion. When we respond to hatred with love, we're not showing weakness; we're demonstrating spiritual strength that breaks cycles of hostility.
This devotional unpacks practical ways to live out this counter-cultural command: praying for those who've wronged us, finding tangible ways to show kindness, releasing our need for vengeance, and guarding our hearts against the poison of bitterness. Walking this path means following in Jesus' footsteps, who modeled the ultimate example by praying for his executioners. Your kindness toward an enemy might become the very seed that leads them to grace – a profound testimony to the transformative power of Christ-like love. Join us in discovering how mercy can triumph over judgment in our daily relationships and conflicts.