As God's called-out saints, we are mandated to embrace a "foot-washing attitude," constituting a daily commitment to humility, forgiveness, and selfless service to God, our spiritual siblings, and our neighbors. Referencing David's restraint toward Shimei in II Samuel 16 and 19, and Our Savior's teachings in Matthew 5:38-42, we are to resist retaliating against insults, but to respond to offences with grace and forbearance. When Jesus commands us to turn the other cheek and go the extra mile, he never presented that option as weakness and timidity, but as powerful demonstrations of spiritual maturity, reflecting God's character. When we consider David's dignity in the face of insult, coupled with Jesus Christ's incredible love for His enemies, we believers are prompted to trust God's justice, responding with humility. True spiritual strength lies in meekness rather than revenge. Emulating godly meekness strengthens our witness to a hostile world.

Insults wield a potent force, capable of inflicting deep wounds that linger far longer than physical injuries. As we mature, the impact of harsh words becomes increasingly personal, striking us with the force of a stone. The tongue, though created for good, can unleash immense damage and heartache. When faced with destructive words, we are challenged to respond with restraint, as exemplified by David, who endured Shimei's curses without retaliation, recognizing that the Lord had permitted such affliction. Solomon, learning from his father's patience, advises in Ecclesiastes 7:20-22 to overlook insults, reminding us that we too have spoken unkindly to others. We must be thick-skinned, not taking every word to heart, and avoid overreacting to what is said about us. In human interactions, misunderstandings and unintended offenses occur, and we must take them in stride. Even words of spiritual correction, though painful, can be for our ultimate good, as Solomon teaches in Ecclesiastes 7:5 that it is better to hear the rebuke of the wise than the flattery of fools. By exercising patience and forgiveness toward those who insult us, we pursue peace, a deep spiritual calm unaffected by worldly turmoil, reflecting the character of Jesus Christ who did not retaliate against curses and false accusations.

Family feuds, marked by deep-seated offenses and retaliation, often begin with a perceived insult or wrong, whether real or imagined. Such conflicts, as seen in historical examples like the Hatfield and McCoy feud over a stolen hog, escalate through tit-for-tat exchanges, leading to destruction and death. These feuds reflect a human tendency to seek personal vengeance, turning minor slights into prolonged battles when no one is willing to back down or sacrifice their pride. In addressing personal insults and offenses, Jesus Christ offers a radical approach for His disciples. He instructs them not to resist an evil person who insults or harms them, as exemplified by the command to turn the other cheek when slapped. This response, meant to absorb contempt without retaliation, challenges the natural urge to defend one's honor. His teaching emphasizes shrugging off verbal or physical insults, swallowing shame, and avoiding escalation by not responding in kind. Instead, He urges a spirit of patience, humility, and sacrifice, aiming to restore peace and reflect godly character in the face of personal affronts.

In addressing the concept of submission, we must consider how we respond to insults and offenses as a reflection of our faith in God. Jesus teaches that when faced with an insult, such as a slap on the cheek, we are to turn the other cheek, enduring even a more degrading backhand without retaliation. This instruction extends beyond physical slaps to encompass verbal attacks, gossip, or being taken advantage of at work, where the natural impulse might be to retaliate for satisfaction. However, God calls us to submit in these situations, focusing on our duties and responsibilities to Him rather than our personal privileges. Our first duty is always to God, and submission to Him in the face of insult is paramount. God desires this response for significant reasons. He is preparing us for future responsibilities, ensuring we can wield great power with restraint and not lash out at offenses from those under our authority. Additionally, He aims for us to be peacemakers; by refusing to engage in conflict, we can halt escalation and work toward resolution. Submission in the face of insult can be a grim duty or a glad service, but it is always better to submit cheerfully out of respect for God, seeing Him on His throne. Even if someone wrongs us through abuse or insult, we do not have the right to retaliate; instead, we must submit as an act of faith, trusting God to handle the situation. When insulted, retaliation clouds the mind with revenge and anger, breeding conflict. By maintaining a higher standard and not stooping to the level of the offender, we leave room for God to work, potentially even changing the heart of the oppressor. Thus, our submission in the face of insults is not a sign of weakness but a powerful act of faith and love, aligning with God's will and contributing to peace within His creation.