Oh, Lord and Father, the Psalmist’s words remind us how we often struggle to shine as the living lights you intend us to be through the darkness of this fallen world!  We have felt the sting of insult; we have been pierced by barbs flung freely by unfeeling, uncaring people; we often experience disappointment from friends and loved ones who let us down, who betray our confidence, who attack us with ugly words and actions.  Father, in those difficult times and seasons, we ask that you would empower us according to your grace and the authority of your Spirit to resist every temptation to retaliate in kind.  May we rather respond in love, patience, and truth, faithful to your calling that we should live as you have called us to be givers in this uncaring world of takers, to model your grace and hope to others, to strive for peace with all men, like Paul admonished us, so long as that peace depends on our attitudes, our reactions to wrong, and our determination to live before others as you have called us to be witnesses to your Truth.  Thank you ultimately for your salvation, for your grace, and  for the glorious hope that gives us courage in the face of men’s opposition.  Amen!