Proverbs - Rewarding Evil

Proverbs 17:13

Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.

When a kindness is shown to us, it would be wise for us to take note of it and be sure to guard our future responses to that person.  Sometimes the enemy can whisper suggestions of ill intent about someone who has done good to us.  He will question their motives.  He will offer suggestions of evil intentions in order to sow discord among the brethren.  If we are not careful we might follow his suggestions and reward evil for good.

 The Lord warns us here that if we do this, our homes will be plagued with trouble.  Consider who you might have gossiped about or been unkind to lately.  Apart from this being wrong in and of itself, are the subjects of your actions people who have been kind to you?  Be aware of your adversary’s plot to have you reward evil for good.

 How about your pastor or ministry leaders who are seeking to bless and equip you?  Have you criticized and torn them down in the midst of their love and concern for your walk with the Lord?  How about your husband who is seeking to take care of you and provide for you?  Are you discontent and demeaning to the one who is growing in his calling as a husband and father? 

May we take note of good shown to us and be guarded against rewarding evil for this good.  This will protect our home from unnecessary trouble and we will not cooperate with the accuser of the brethren and author of confusion.