How can believers today respond to injustice and violence in a biblical manner? The Cry of Psalm 79:3 “They have poured out their blood like water on every side of Jerusalem, and there was no one to bury them.” (Psalm 79:3) This verse pictures brutal injustice—lives treated as worthless and dignity denied. God included this lament in Scripture so His people would know how to respond when violence still rages in their own day. Recognizing Injustice for What It Is • Call it sin. Scripture never minimizes evil (Isaiah 5:20). • Refuse denial or excuses. God’s people acknowledge reality, just as Asaph does in the psalm. • Remember each victim bears God’s image (Genesis 1:27). Turning Pain into Prayer • Lament honestly—Psalm 79 shows we can pour out grief without editing it for politeness (Psalm 62:8). • Intercede by name when possible, trusting God hears the oppressed (Exodus 3:7). • Plead for God’s intervention: “How long, O LORD?” (Psalm 79:5). Holding on to God’s Justice • Justice is not merely social preference; it is God’s character (Deuteronomy 32:4). • He promises to repay wrongdoing (Romans 12:19). • The cross proves judgment and mercy meet (Colossians 2:14-15). Believers rest in that assurance while awaiting final reckoning. Responding with Righteous Actions 1. Advocate: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” (Proverbs 31:8-9). 2. Act: Provide tangible help—food, shelter, legal aid—as the Good Samaritan did (Luke 10:33-35). 3. Guard due process: Support lawful measures that restrain evil (Romans 13:3-4). 4. Pursue reform: “Learn to do right; seek justice, correct the oppressor” (Isaiah 1:17). 5. Give generously: Early believers met needs sacrificially (Acts 4:34-35). Guarding the Heart Against Bitterness • Refuse personal vengeance: “Do not repay anyone evil for evil” (Romans 12:17-21). • Forgive as Christ forgave you (Ephesians 4:32). • Pray for enemies (Luke 6:27-29). Such obedience trusts God to handle outcomes. Living as Witnesses of Hope • Model peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). • Share the gospel—only new hearts bring lasting change (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Look to the coming kingdom where “He will wipe away every tear” (Revelation 21:4). While Psalm 79:3 captures the horror of spilled blood, the rest of Scripture arms believers with lament, prayer, and action rooted in God’s unshakable justice. |
    |