Gen 16:6 But Abram said to Sarai, “Behold, your servant is in your power; do to her as you please.” Then Sarai dealt harshly with her, and she fled from her.
One of the most hurtful things is to use a position of power to avenge, oppress or mistreat people who disagree or despise you. It is true that Sarai was disrespected, but the way both Sarai and Abram addressed the situation was wrong. Abram surrendered to his wife’s accusation and turned over the power to her. Meanwhile Sarai used her position to harshly mistreat pregnant Hagar forcing her to flee. Hagar was deprived of honor and affection she had received as Abram’s wife, and subjected to injurious treatment at the hands of Sarai.
Those who would keep peace and love must return soft answers to hard accusations, in other words, be different. Positions are not be used to avenge, exploit or oppress, they are to be used to serve, lead and protect. It’s been said with great power comes great responsibility. Rom 12:19 “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, …”