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Matthew 5:39-41 (KJV) - But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.
In certain jobs, supervisors come and go. Each supervisor brings a different skill, work ethic, behavior, personality, etc. Some supervisors are good...and others are not so good. I've experienced many supervisors that use their position and authority for their own personal benefit while disregarding my own personal or professional well-being.
Why would God allow me to be treated like this?!
There are certain times when people are placed in our lives to help us grow and develop godly character. About eight years ago, God told me that I was to remain an enlisted member because I needed to be humbled. Well, there's nothing like a few difficult supervisors to help that along!
The Lord has told me to stand down (my behavior)...and not to resist evil people. He wants me to be able to go live out Matthew 5:39-41 and go the distance - His way. In the world's estimation, this would seem foolish because the world says you shouldn't let anyone run over you, but the wisdom of God will never be understood by the world (1 Corinthians 3:18-20). Although I may be treated wrong, I must persevere.
LORD GIVE ME STRENGTH!!!
The flesh will scream in agony over its mistreatment, but I must repay evil with good (Romans 12:14-21). I cannot look at the situation through the world's eyes but God's. I may not understand the why, when (it will stop), what, where, and how (or how long), but to be honest, if I'm serving God and looking to Him, should it matter?! Every question may not be answered, but God will not place anything upon me that I couldn't stand up against (1 Corinthians 10:13). He will show me ways to deal with the mistreatment. Only He can keep me in perfect peace.
It will be up to us to exchange our burdens with the Lord (Psalm 55:22; Matthew 11: 28-30; 1 Peter 5:6-7). If left alone, these burdens can destroy our minds, physical health, and family life. They do nothing but keep us bitter and distracted from the things which matter most.
Use situations like these as opportunities to grow. It will be your opportunity to trust God - just another 'exercise' in humility.
