How should Deuteronomy 32:35 influence our response to being wronged by others? Setting the Scene “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip, for their day of calamity is at hand, and their doom rushes upon them.” (Deuteronomy 32:35) God’s Exclusive Right to Vengeance • The verse plainly states that vengeance belongs to God alone. • “I will repay” affirms He personally settles every score—nothing escapes His notice. • The promise that “their foot will slip” underscores a certain, divinely timed justice; God’s calendar is perfect even when ours feels slow. What This Means When We Are Wronged • We resist the instinct to retaliate because vengeance is not our assignment. • Trust that God sees every wrong and guarantees righteous repayment. • Release bitterness; clinging to it suggests God might mishandle justice. • Waiting on Him is an act of faith, not passivity—He is actively governing outcomes. Practical Steps for Faithful Obedience • Pause and pray before reacting; reaffirm, “Vengeance belongs to the Lord.” • Speak truthfully about the offense if needed (Matthew 18:15), yet without spite. • Do good to the offender where possible—an expression of confident trust in God (Proverbs 25:21–22). • Keep short accounts with God; confess anger quickly (Ephesians 4:26–27). • Surround yourself with believers who will remind you of God’s justice and encourage perseverance. Encouragement from the New Testament • Romans 12:19: “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: ‘Vengeance is Mine; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” • 1 Peter 2:23: Jesus “when He suffered, He did not threaten, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:15: “Make sure that no one repays evil for evil, but always pursue what is good for one another and for all people.” Final Takeaways • God alone has the authority and capacity to execute perfect justice. • Our calling is patient trust, forgiving hearts, and proactive kindness. • Deuteronomy 32:35 anchors us: every wrong will be addressed—by God, in His timing, with flawless equity. |
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