Quote Originally Posted by Mia View Post
27 “But I say to you who are listening, love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who are cruel to you. 29 If anyone slaps you on one cheek, offer him the other cheek, too. If someone takes your coat, do not stop him from taking your shirt. Luke 6:27-29 (NCV)

Yes everyone's favourite and mis-interpreted bible verse. it is not about standing there and allowing your 'enemy' (ie. someone you don't like) to mistreat you. It's about:

1. Picking your battles and learning to overlook an offense and insult. 99.9% which won't matter in the long run.
2. Love and accept the fact that this is who your enemy chooses to be and the way they want to behave and you have no control over it.
3. Don't stoop to behaving like your enemy.

In doing this you are not allowing anothers poison and negativity to infect your spirit. This isn't just ethical advice. But sound psychology for your well being.
For me, its about forgiveness and an attitude of the heart. When people mistreat us, we have to be the bigger person. Like you state - getting even leads nowhere. Whats that saying - if we go by eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth, sooner or later everyone will be eyeless and toothless.

One small comfort, for those who are vengeance inclined - the Bible also says that:

"If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you." Proverbs 25:21-22