They say that pride is the original sin, the font of all the evils in the world. To combat it, you would think that virtues like humility and modesty would be helpful. But Jesus seems to demand that His followers abandon any sense of self-respect and self-worth.
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ 39But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. 40And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. 41If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. 42Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” – Matthew 5:39-42
It looks like disciples are not at liberty to pursue justice or right wrongs, at least not for ourselves. Regardless of the injuries or deprivation we may suffer, the Lord doesn’t permit us to retaliate or even to seek redress.
If this is His standard, we’re going to lose at the game of life!
But the Bible seems to be okay with this. Consider this passage from the apostle Paul:
“The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated?” – 1 Corinthians 6:7
What a choice we have: defeated, wronged, or cheated! Where’s any suggestion of justice overcoming the mistreatment and harm we endure?
The writer to the Hebrews sticks with the same reasoning as Paul:
“You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions.” – Hebrews 10:34
This statement is not a command but a description. The writer wasn’t telling these Jewish Christians how to behave; rather, he was reminding them of their honorable conduct.
Why did these disciples accept the loss of their goods? Because they knew something. Neither their attitude nor their manner were imposed. Instead, they derived from an inner awareness that stabilized these Christians through tough times.
Was such confidence warranted? Only if the foundation is solid. These saints were certain that they “had better and lasting possessions.” What are those?
We can guess that they’re spiritual as opposed to the material treasures that people confiscated. Jesus contrasts the two:
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:19-21
The Lord categorizes valuables but focuses on the heart. What captivates our attention, what consumes our time and energy?
Paul wrestled with these and decided that nothing was as important as knowing Jesus.
“But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.” – Philippians 3:7-8
When our hearts attend to Christ, we can perceive the proper significance of things and accept their loss because we’re secure in Him. And He will not fail us.
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
Take Shakespeare’s advice and smile at the thief, but do so because you know the One who provides. He will give you the very best–Himself.
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