Neville Goddard on Romans 12:17-21 - Mystical Bible Interpretation

Read Romans 12 in context

Scripture Focus

17Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

18If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

19Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

20Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

21Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:17-21

Biblical Context

Paul urges a non-retaliatory life: do not repay evil with evil, and provide things honest in the sight of all. If possible, live peaceably with all and overcome evil by doing good.

Neville's Inner Vision

Romans 12:17-21 speaks not of external conflict alone but of the inner drama of consciousness. Evil is not 'out there' but a belief in separation from your own I AM. When you say, 'vengeance is mine,' you are declaring that the self which judges and retaliates is not the true ruler; the true ruler is consciousness itself, the I AM that loves. To overcome evil, you must assume a state of mercy so real that your imagination treats the one who harmed you as already blessed. The instruction to feed the hungry or give drink to the thirsty becomes a symbolic act: you nourish the harmony you seek within, you invest your inner energy in compassion, and the outer scene follows. Do not be overcome by the appearance of evil; let your good state do the heavy lifting. By dwelling in a peaceful, forgiving awareness, you align with the divine order that repays in ways you cannot see with mere eyes. Your peace becomes the instrument of transformation.

Practice This Now

Close your eyes and rehearse feeding your enemy—see them nourished and whole; feel your I AM steady and refuse to react from offense until the feeling of mercy is real.