Most of us do not go around cursing people. We know better than that. So when the scripture tells us in Romans 12:14: “Bless those who persecute you; bless and curse not,” we feel “Whew! I’m doing okay on that one at least.”

But what is a curse? When we rehash with other people the offenses that have been inflicted on us, aren’t we really cursing those offenders? We want our friends to agree with us about how badly we were treated. When they say; “Yes, yes, how horribly that person treated you – how bad they are;” isn’t that a word curse?

There is a delicious but poisonous satisfaction we get in recounting our persecutions but we must RESIST it. Why? Because Christ resisted first. Jesus said: “‘Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.'” (Luke 23:34)

After the Resurrection, do you remember even one time when Jesus talked over with anyone all the hateful things that were done to him? Did he get his disciples to agree about how bad the Romans and Jewish leaders were who crucified him?

Follow his example! When you resist the temptation to curse those who persecute you by not rehearsing offenses, be assured that it is worth it. Something more delicious than your friends’ approval awaits you: Christ’s approval!