Connect Psalm 94:23 with Romans 12:19 on God's role in vengeance. Setting the Stage Psalm 94:23 presents the certainty of God’s judgment on the wicked, while Romans 12:19 commands believers to step back and let God handle vengeance. These verses stand shoulder-to-shoulder, revealing one consistent truth: God alone executes perfect justice. Scripture Highlights • Psalm 94:23 – “He will bring upon them their own iniquity and destroy them for their wickedness. The LORD our God will destroy them.” • Romans 12:19 – “Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.” • Deuteronomy 32:35; Proverbs 20:22; 1 Peter 2:23; Revelation 6:10 reinforce the same principle. God’s Exclusive Right to Repay • His justice flows from His holy character, untainted by bias or error. • The phrase “Vengeance is Mine” (Deuteronomy 32:35) claims the role permanently for God. • Psalm 94 shows Him actively righting wrongs: the wicked reap exactly what they sow (“He will bring upon them their own iniquity”). • Romans 12 echoes this: God’s righteous wrath has a time, a measure, and an outcome known only to Him. Believers Called to Trust, Not Retaliate • Personal retaliation usurps God’s throne; stepping back honors His sovereignty. • Choosing restraint reflects Christ’s own pattern (1 Peter 2:23). • Patience in injustice is not passive; it actively hands the case to the Judge whose verdict all creation must respect. Living It Out • Refuse revenge—verbally, legally, or physically—no matter the provocation. • Commit every wrong suffered to God in prayerful trust. • Pursue good toward enemies (Romans 12:20-21) as a testimony that judgment belongs to the Lord, not to us. • Anchor emotions in promises like Proverbs 20:22: “Wait on the LORD, and He will deliver you.” Sure Hope of Final Justice • Revelation 6:10 assures that every plea for justice reaches God’s throne and receives a perfect answer. • Psalm 94:23 previews that final scene: evil is destroyed, righteousness prevails, and God’s people stand vindicated. • Resting in this promise frees believers from bitterness today and fuels enduring trust in the One who always repays with flawless righteousness. |
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