But I am Right

There are times when I know I am right.... but what does that matter with respect to eternity? Recently, I had a mechanic take advantage of me. He literally took my money then refused to fix my vehicle. So I am left with a broken car and without the money to fix it. I was angry; I told God that I was. In all respects he stole this money and left me in a bind. I am already working two jobs and trying to pay for my Love's wedding band (I have just three weeks until the wedding).

God has given us an amazing gift. We have free will to make our own choices in life. We can make choices that are for our good and for the good of others; or, we can do just the opposite. This mechanic exercised his free will and chose to take advantage of someone less fortunate than he. He is also not a Christian.

Now, I have a choice to make. The Bible tells me this:

1 Corinthians 8:1 "...We know that we all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up."

I have a choice. By making this choice I will effect the eternity of someone else. I can make life miserable for this mechanic by telling his employer; telling all who know him; or even taking him to small claims court. Or, I can be an example of Godly love and pray for this man.

Luke 6:28 "bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you."

My prayer is that this man will come to know Christ. I know I am in the right and I have options to regain what I have lost. I would be justified in that. But will proving and justifying myself make my life better? While it is true that I may get back the money I need to fix my car, What will it prove to this man? Will he see the love of God in me as I get my revenge?

In life, I see that people sometimes hurt others. The level of pain depends on the amount of importance the injustice is to the one hurt. I believe this man's soul is more important than my pride, my pain, and my car. So I choose to exert God's love for this man and to pray that he turns to God. I choose to build him up through prayer and petition.

God, give me Your love and Your strength to look past the pain inflicted on me by others. Help me to look at the lives of others in respect to eternity. Help me to build up others through Your love. I know that knowledge and wisdom are gifts from You; but so is salvation. Teach me how to turn the other cheek. Help me to pray for the salvation of others in Your holy name! I love You!