Moment of Meditation: Turn the Other Cheek (Matthew 5:39)

"If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also."
(Matthew 5:39)

Turn the Other Cheek

Although our natural inclination is to seek revenge, Jesus tells us to refrain. In fact, we're to take it and let it roll off of us like water off a duck's feathers. Jesus gives three instances where we're not only to take what is given to us but be willing to accept more.

If someone slaps your right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.

Why should we accept trouble or give more than we're asked? "The sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us" (Romans 8:18). As Christians, we know we will suffer because this world hates Jesus: "I chose you out of the world," Jesus says, "therefore the world hates you" (John 15:19).

The world hates you. It will always hate you as you bear Christ's name. But rejoice in that name. The name that is the promise of much more wonderful things. "You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). Amen.