I came across a notable verse this morning during my devotion time. The beginning sounded familiar but it ended with a slight twist. A nice twist. Like ending your breakfast with a cinnamon twist.

The letter written by Peter in the early 60s AD includes encouragement and admonitions for believers who were enduring persecution and suffering for their faith. Contrary to how the readers may have felt, Peter wrote, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing” (1 Peter 3:9).

Now I must admit, if I am being persecuted, badmouthed, or belittled, my natural instinct is not to bless the offender. My creative mind and quick, or slow, tongue would prefer to slash like a sword and cut the oppressor or harasser down to size . . . at least, in my thoughts.

But Peter here, like Jesus, calls us to take the high road. It reminds me of Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) not to take an eye for an eye.

Instead of taking on the role of avenger, we mentally place our pain in the hands of our heavenly Father and leave the offender’s punishment up to Him. Then we find a way to bless, either with words, actions, or both. Praying for our adversary can help both their heart and ours.

Previously I mentioned this verse ended with a twist. Here it is. When you bless others, you “inherit a blessing”. Think on that! Blessing for blessing! Instead of a painful twist, this verse promises a pleasurable one. God blesses us in many ways, on many levels, mighty and minute. For believers, blessings will definitely include an eternal home and, perhaps for now, a twist of cinnamon.