Years ago when I read the Scripture in Luke that I used the other day I saw it in the literal sense. When Jesus said to turn the other cheek I visualized doing exactly that. I agree it may mean to physically turn the other cheek to be struck, but I believe it always implied something a great deal broader.
If we are not physically struck, and yet feel the blows of words that have slammed us against a virtual wall, how do we react? Do we react in such a way to defend ourselves and inflict pain to our assailants, or do we respond with words that bring calm, and not anger?
Yesterday, I used the Scripture in John where Jesus asked a very direct question in response to being struck. Jesus spoke truth and He was struck for the truth that He spoke. It was so counter to what you would expect in the natural, so my conclusion was that Jesus was going to be struck regardless if He spoke truth or a lie.
When I further meditated on this Scripture it brought to mind how the Bible declares that we shall see unfavorable or injurious things happen to us as believers. As a people who follow Jesus there will be others who will use the Truth that we hold close as an excuse to persecute us.
My strength comes from the many Scriptures that tell us to stand firm. 1 Corinthians 16:13 Be alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong, 1 Peter 5:9 But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world, and Ephesians 6:11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.
This story of ours has a good ending. An ending that is eternal! In that we can all stand firm.
Matthew 24:9 CSB “Then they will hand you over to be persecuted, and they will kill you. You will be hated by all nations because of My name.
Luke 6:22 MSG “Count yourself blessed every time someone cuts you down or throws you out, very time someone smears or blackens your name to discredit Me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and that person is uncomfortable.”
John 16:33 NIV “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”