1 Thess. 5:15 “See that noone renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.”
The apostle Paul presents the Thessalonian brethren with two courses of action in this verse. First, a course of equal retribution. Second, the course of equitable resolution. I see a significant difference in the two approaches. Each are individual choices. It boils down to a simple choice of being reactive or proactive.
The reactive individual has the mentality of “an eye for and eye” and sets out on a course of getting even for what has been done to him. This is what most people would suggest is a “normal” response.
On the other hand, the proactive person seeks for a peaceful resolution that is beneficial for all involved. This type of response comes from a heart that has been transformed by the gospel. It is a response that will seek not only an individual’s physical well-being but also his/her spiritual safety.
One is negative the other positive. Which one do you think Paul is commanding us to “pursue”?