How Dare She?

I cannot believe (whoever) did (whatever)!
Who does (whoever) think she is anyway?
How dare she (whatever)!

These and similar statements of anger and hurt are readily expressed when we are deceived or treated unfairly. We get huffy and emotional. Much time and energy are invested in the unpleasantness of our emotions.

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21 NIV

“And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right.” 2 Thessalonians 3:13 NIV

So how does that work out in real life? If negative emotions cause us to not do what is right, how are we to handle unpleasant behaviors of others? First, we have to realize who the actual enemy is. It is Satan. Our battle is not with other people. It is with Satan and his suggestions to do evil. He is subtle, clever, and sneaky. Satan’s suggestions may come to us through his work in others, in situations, or even from our own thought life.

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:17-18 NIV

That is one difficult task! It means that I must swallow my pride, stop being self-protective, and not harbor negative emotions. Don’t we all at times relish wallowing in our hurts and frustrations? Otherwise negatives would not have so much power over us. But that is letting Satan have his way. Actually, living in peace seems to be contrary to human nature. We are more concerned with self than with others.

So how do I stop all the negative emotion? Satan is too powerful and deceptive for me, a mere human being, to battle. He has been victorious too many times in my life. I like to think I am in control, but that is when Satan and his demons seem to have me entrenched in their grasp.

Our solitary hope is through the supernatural power of God. The only way we can be victorious over Satan is by studying God’s Word, praying to God, and following his commands through the power of the Holy Spirit living in us,

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things.” Philippians 4:8 NIV

Lord, give me your strength in my battle against Satan. Keep my mind focused on what is right in your eyes.