In what ways can we seek God's justice when wronged, as in Psalm 35:12? Setting the Scene: Psalm 35:12 in Context “They repay me evil for good, to the bereavement of my soul.” (Psalm 35:12) David describes being slandered and attacked without cause. Instead of plotting revenge, he turns to God—the righteous Judge—modeling how believers today can pursue divine justice when mistreated. First Step: Bring the Hurt to God in Honest Prayer • David immediately talks to God about the injustice (Psalm 35:1). • Scripture invites the same transparency: “Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you.” (Psalm 55:22) • Honest lament keeps resentment from festering and places the matter in God’s court. Second Step: Refuse Personal Retaliation • Romans 12:17-19: “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… ‘Vengeance is Mine; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” • Choosing not to strike back displays confidence in God’s justice and prevents sinning in response to sin. Third Step: Appeal to God’s Character as Judge • David pleads, “Awake and rise to my defense, to my cause, my God and my Lord!” (Psalm 35:23). • Hebrews 12:23 calls Him “the Judge of all,” assuring believers He will rule rightly. • Reminding ourselves of His holiness, wisdom, and omniscience stabilizes our hearts while we wait. Fourth Step: Persevere in Integrity and Good Works • David’s earlier kindness to his enemies (Psalm 35:13-14) exposes their malice. • 1 Peter 2:15: “For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorance of foolish men.” • Continual obedience demonstrates trust in God and leaves no foothold for accusation. Fifth Step: Employ God-Ordained Avenues of Justice • Government is “a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the wrongdoer.” (Romans 13:4) • Using lawful processes—courts, mediation, church discipline—can be an act of faith, acknowledging God’s delegated authority. Sixth Step: Wait Expectantly for God’s Vindication • Psalm 35 ends with praise in advance: “My tongue will proclaim Your righteousness, Your praises all day long.” (v. 28) • Isaiah 30:18: “Therefore the LORD longs to be gracious to you… blessed are all who wait for Him.” • Whether vindication arrives now or at Christ’s return (2 Thessalonians 1:6-7), God’s justice is certain, and waiting becomes an act of worship. Summary When wronged, believers seek God’s justice by pouring out their grief to Him, rejecting revenge, leaning on His flawless character, continuing in good works, using legitimate authorities, and waiting with confidence for His perfect vindication. |
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