So at what point do you stop being a Christian and start being a doormat? I’ve always hated the idea that being a Christian means people have a license to walk all over you.
So at what point do you stop being a Christian and start being a doormat? I’ve always hated the idea that being a Christian means people have a license to walk all over you.
My thoughts on this at this point ... suggest that there may be some unrecognized power in 'turning the other cheek' ... insofar as such uncommon behaviour may indeed shock a soul out of the grips of evil.
i'm not saying that it's easy ... and, in fact, ... my modus operandi is to subtly let folks know that they can't walk all over me ... and to stay out of the way of those crazy people who will try it anyway.
That’s how I feel about the “I’m saved I can do anything I want”.
There is a way not to be a doormat without being a jerk. Sometimes it’s a very fine line and I fall over it.
When you actually follow Jesus, and heal the sick, raise the dead, cast out demons. When you forgive as you have been forgiven. When you give as freely as has been given you.
Look, read the whole thing:
"You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.'But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you."
First, this is not optional - it is a command. But this is a description of power being given, not weakness being taken. I have heard someone describe this using a scene from the Rocky movie where the Russian was beating the snot out of our hero (I haven't seen this so bear with me). At one point, someone who loved Rocky says "What is he doing?" meaning, "Why is he staying in there?" The reply - "He's winning." And the Russian's response? "He's not human."
When we are struck by an evil person, and we turn to them again (and again) and let them strike us without defeating us, we defeat them. We witness to them and to the world, "We are stronger, and our strength is in Christ." And when we refuse to "resist" them (I think a better translation is "do not engage them in a contest"), we tell them that even if they have their way, they cannot triumph over the victory that has already been won.
When we truly love God and follow Jesus, we know that we have unlimited strength. Start living that way! When we truly love God and follow Jesus, we know we have unlimited treasure. Start giving that way?
My humble thoughts. Forgive me.