THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Consider the words spoken by the man, who, overwhelmed with sorrow, lamented and wept deeply, saying, "You are more righteous than I, for you have rewarded me with good things, but I have rewarded you with evil things." Observe how he acknowledges his own wrongdoing while praising the goodness of the righteous, offering an apology without any external pressure. You should act similarly. When you find yourself confronted with your adversary, do not cast blame upon them; rather, justify them to encourage them to reflect on their own actions. If we accuse our enemy, they will become hardened; but if we show them mercy, feeling shame for our humility, they will ultimately condemn themselves.
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This approach ensures that the accusation lacks suspicion, allowing the accused to relinquish their anger, just as it happened in this instance. The injured party remained silent, yet the one who had wronged him condemned himself profoundly. He did not merely state, "You have done me good," but declared, "You have rewarded me with good things," meaning that for my betrayal, for murder, for countless offenses, you returned kindness. Despite my persistent malice, you did not alter your nature; you continued to act according to your principles and bestowed goodness upon me in spite of my malevolence. How many honors David merits for each of these utterances! Although they came from Saul's lips, they were embedded in his heart through David's wisdom and discernment.