Romans 12:14-21
14 “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. 17 Never repay evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all people. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all people. 19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 “But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Paul wants us to love one another according to the needs of others. As we do, we can choose to not be wise in our own estimation, trying to fix everyone’s problems. Sometimes our only job is empathy.
Never repay evil for evil…respect what is right: This is not speaking of being controlled by public opinion. Paul is speaking about making every effort to be at peace with all people. As we do this, we will find ourselves being good to enemies of the Gospel. The Spirit will produce gentleness within us to give to people. As we do this, we may cause our enemies to hate us more but Christ’s love for us is enough to endure this.
