How can we apply "do not say, 'I will avenge this evil'" today? The Heart of the Instruction “Do not say, ‘I will avenge this evil!’ Wait on the LORD, and He will deliver you.” (Proverbs 20:22) Why Revenge Tempts Us • We crave immediate payback to ease our hurt. • Culture celebrates the “instant clap-back.” • Fear suggests injustice will triumph if we stay silent. • Pride insists our reputation must be defended. What God Calls Us to Do Instead • Wait on Him—trust His timing (Psalm 37:7). • Leave vengeance in His hands: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay” (Romans 12:19). • Overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). • Follow Christ’s example: “When He suffered, He made no threats” (1 Peter 2:23). • Pray for those who wrong us (Matthew 5:44). Practical Ways to Refuse Revenge Today 1. Guard your words – Delete retaliatory posts or texts (Proverbs 15:1). – Speak blessing, not cursing (Romans 12:14). 2. Release the offense in prayer – Name the hurt, then hand it to God (Psalm 55:22). 3. Show active kindness – “If your enemy is hungry, feed him” (Romans 12:20). 4. Seek lawful justice, never personal payback – Respect God-ordained authorities (Romans 13:1-4). 5. Lean on wise counsel – Let trusted believers keep you anchored (Proverbs 11:14). 6. Recall past deliverance – Joseph saw God’s hand in betrayal (Genesis 50:20). 7. Keep eternity in view – God “will repay each person according to what he has done” (Romans 2:6). The Blessings of Leaving Justice to the Lord • Peace replaces simmering anger (Philippians 4:6-7). • A clear conscience (Acts 24:16). • Stronger faith when God intervenes (Psalm 34:8). • A living gospel witness (Matthew 5:16). • The cycle of hostility stops (Proverbs 15:18). Every hurt is an invitation to trust the Lord rather than ourselves. Refusing revenge and waiting on Him honors His character, guards our hearts, and lets His perfect justice shine. |
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