Tit-for-tat is most commonly referred to as retaliation and it is defined as the infliction of an injury, blow, or insult in return for one that one has suffered. Phrase founder Gary Martin said, ‘Tit’ and ‘tat’ are both the names of small blows which originated as ‘tip’ and ‘tap’. This phrase was recorded by Charles, Duke of Orleans in a book of poems that he wrote while captive in England after the battle of Agincourt and first published circa 1466. Well, for those who live in Christ knows that vengeance or retaliation is the Lord’s responsibility (Deut 32:35). Therefore, our ‘tat’ or response to our offenders should always be grounded or rooted in the spirit of love. Jesus said, “To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for that person. If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously. (Luke 6:27 MSG) Jesus is not saying be doormat nor is saying be a sledge hammer. As Christians we are called to live at peace with one another…..if at all possible. I get it, things can often get a little heated. However, look at it this way; love is best demonstrated under fire! The reality is God is so much better at righting the people and the things that wrong us and when you view an offense through the lens of grace you will also see your fault in the situation and like I taught my children; if you are 1/10th of 100 percent wrong, you are 100 percent wrong.
