It’s no secret that our world is heavy with tragedy and confusion. In recent days, many of us have been gripped by emotions ranging from sadness to anger as we’ve seen senseless acts of violence unfold. When we hear about innocent lives lost—especially children—it shakes us to the core. Like many of you, I’ve felt those emotions deeply.

The question we wrestle with is this: What do we do with all of that?

The Apostle Paul gives us a direct word in Romans 12:21: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

That’s a simple sentence, but it’s an incredible challenge. Because when evil strikes, our natural instinct is often to respond in kind—with outrage, bitterness, even hatred. Yet Paul tells us that giving into those emotions is the very definition of being overcome by evil.

So what’s the alternative? How do we actually overcome evil with good?

1. Choose Forgiveness

One of the most powerful weapons against evil is forgiveness. Forgiving those who commit terrible acts doesn’t mean excusing what they’ve done or pretending it isn’t wrong. Forgiveness means we refuse to let anger turn into hatred. We refuse to let bitterness consume us. Jesus Himself modeled this on the cross when He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).

When we forgive, we protect our own hearts. Without forgiveness, the poison of anger will eventually make us no different than those who committed the evil act.

     2. Stay in the Fight

Overcoming evil isn’t just about what we don’t do—it’s about what we do instead. Paul challenges us to keep pressing forward in good works, to continue bringing the light of Christ into dark places.

When tragedy strikes, the temptation is to withdraw, to give up, to say, “What’s the point?” But the truth is, the world needs followers of Jesus to stand up and keep sharing the hope of the gospel. Evil is loud, but goodness can be louder if we refuse to quit.

     3. Live with Eternal Perspective

Evil reminds us that this world is broken and temporary. Our hope isn’t in governments, policies, or even human justice—it’s in Christ and His coming Kingdom. That perspective gives us courage to keep going, even when life doesn’t make sense.

Final Thought
Romans 12:21 isn’t a suggestion. It’s a command. If we allow ourselves to be swallowed by anger and hatred, evil has already won. But when we forgive, when we love, and when we keep pointing people toward Jesus, we overcome evil with good.

So in moments like these, let’s decide together: we will not be overcome. We will keep shining the light of Christ until He makes all things new.