“Handling People Who Mishandled You”

Beloved, one of your greatest tests will be how you handle people who mishandled you. David knew this well. Though Saul had once loved him, jealousy consumed the king’s heart. Saul hurled spears at him, chased him through the wilderness, and sought his life. Yet when David had the chance to retaliate, he refused. Standing over Saul with his sword, David declared in 1 Samuel 24:6: “The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed, or lay my hand on him.”

David chose restraint over revenge—God’s in lieu of his way! He understood that taking matters into his own hands might bring temporary satisfaction but would forfeit God’s blessing. Instead, he left justice in God’s hands and allowed mercy to speak louder than vengeance.

Paul later echoes this truth in Romans 12:19: “Do not take revenge, 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.” Sometimes your greatest strength is not striking back or lashing out but standing back, trusting that God sees, knows, cares, and will act in His perfect timing.

So Beloved, when mistreated, mocked, or mishandled, remember David’s example. Choose mercy over malice. Choose trust over retaliation. Choose God’s way over your own way! Because your response reveals more about your faith than their offense ever could.

Pray with me:

Father God, thank You for David’s example of restraint and trust. Teach me to handle those who mishandled me with grace, patience, and forgiveness. Help me to leave justice in Your hands and to walk in mercy, knowing You are my defender. In Jesus’ name we pray, believe, receive, and praise. Amen.

#BeStrong 

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