“‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Romans 12:20
Inside of prison or out, you can unintentionally acquire enemies. People have strong opinions about things. When you cross a line, tempers flare.
While incarcerated, I have been an educational mentor, but others often mistake my offer to help them as an insult. One was a huge guy that easily could have taken me down. He threatened to do so when I said I thought he was smart and could help him earn his G.E.D. He also grew angry when I’d speak about my faith. But I never retaliated. Instead, I would slide bags of coffee under his cell door when his supply ran low.
Eventually, we wound up in a self-help weekend workshop together. After the meetings, he came to me with tears in his eyes and apologized. He claimed I was the best friend he had in prison. Six months later he was released, and I have prayed for him faithfully ever since.
The Bible tells us to show brotherly love to each other and to outdo one another in honoring each other (v. 10). I overwhelmed an enemy with kindness and gained a friend. Isn’t that exactly what Jesus has done for us?
While incarcerated, I have been an educational mentor, but others often mistake my offer to help them as an insult. One was a huge guy that easily could have taken me down. He threatened to do so when I said I thought he was smart and could help him earn his G.E.D. He also grew angry when I’d speak about my faith. But I never retaliated. Instead, I would slide bags of coffee under his cell door when his supply ran low.
Eventually, we wound up in a self-help weekend workshop together. After the meetings, he came to me with tears in his eyes and apologized. He claimed I was the best friend he had in prison. Six months later he was released, and I have prayed for him faithfully ever since.
The Bible tells us to show brotherly love to each other and to outdo one another in honoring each other (v. 10). I overwhelmed an enemy with kindness and gained a friend. Isn’t that exactly what Jesus has done for us?
Scripture Focus
Romans 12:9-21
Insight
Written by Daniel K., Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison, Corcoran, CA. Please pray for humility and wisdom as Daniel helps fellow inmates.
Bible In A Year
- Exodus 19-20
- Psalm 35
- Mark 15