Five of Swords
The law of the jungle claims survival of the fittest, a zero-sum game with winners and losers. In this mindset, all is fair in love and war; the one who dies with the most toys wins.
These bullies whet their tongues like sharpened swords and aim bitter words like arrows.
I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
When my soul was embittered, when I was pricked in heart, I was brutish and ignorant. I was like a beast toward you!
They sweep by like the wind and go on, guilty men whose might is their god.
Israel waited in slavery as Pharaoh hardened his heart and stored up judgment on himself; finally they were delivered across the great water.
They were also told to surrender to the captivity until the 70 years of punishment was over, at which time they were restored with rejoicing.
Jesus taught the ultimate way, to conquer hate with love, to surrender.
If a soldier legally demands you carry his equipment one mile, carry it two. If some strikes your left cheek, offer your right as well.
Resist the impulse to intimidate and bully to get your way, to always be right, or to get the last word.
These bullies whet their tongues like sharpened swords and aim bitter words like arrows.
I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
When my soul was embittered, when I was pricked in heart, I was brutish and ignorant. I was like a beast toward you!
They sweep by like the wind and go on, guilty men whose might is their god.
Israel waited in slavery as Pharaoh hardened his heart and stored up judgment on himself; finally they were delivered across the great water.
They were also told to surrender to the captivity until the 70 years of punishment was over, at which time they were restored with rejoicing.
Jesus taught the ultimate way, to conquer hate with love, to surrender.
If a soldier legally demands you carry his equipment one mile, carry it two. If some strikes your left cheek, offer your right as well.
Resist the impulse to intimidate and bully to get your way, to always be right, or to get the last word.
|
|