How can we trust God's judgment in difficult situations, like Paul in 2 Timothy 4:14? Paul’s Example: Alexander the Coppersmith “Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm. The Lord will repay him according to his deeds.” Paul: • suffered real, measurable damage • chose not to retaliate • rested in God’s promise to “repay” The verse is a living illustration that God’s judgment is active, personal, and sure. Why God’s Judgment Is Trustworthy • God’s character is perfectly righteous – Genesis 18:25 “Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?” • God sees every detail we cannot – Hebrews 4:13 “No creature is hidden from His sight…” • God’s timing is flawless – Psalm 37:7 “Wait patiently for Him…” • God’s judgments are final and impartial – Revelation 20:12 “…the dead were judged according to their deeds.” Because these truths are literal and unchanging, we can anchor our response to injustice in them. Scriptural Echoes of 2 Timothy 4:14 • Romans 12:19 “‘Vengeance is Mine; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” • Deuteronomy 32:35 “It is Mine to avenge; I will repay.” • 2 Thessalonians 1:6 “God is just: He will repay with affliction those who afflict you.” • 1 Peter 2:23 (Jesus) “He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” Each passage underlines the same principle Paul embraced. Practical Steps to Trust God’s Judgment 1. Release personal vengeance • Actively decide: “I won’t retaliate; God will handle this.” 2. Keep doing good • Romans 12:21 “Overcome evil with good.” 3. Pray for those who harm you • Matthew 5:44 “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” 4. Remember future accountability • Ecclesiastes 12:14 “God will bring every deed into judgment.” 5. Focus on eternal reward • 2 Timothy 4:8 “In the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness…” The Cross: Ultimate Proof of Just Judgment At Calvary: • Sin was judged fully on Christ (Isaiah 53:6) • Mercy and justice met perfectly (Psalm 85:10) If God did not overlook sin at the cross, He will not overlook wrong done to His people now. Encouragement for Today • Your wounds are not forgotten—Psalm 56:8 says God records each tear. • God’s repayment may come in history (as with Herod in Acts 12) or eternity, but it is certain. • Trusting His judgment frees you to serve with joy, like Paul, who finished his race unburdened by resentment (2 Timothy 4:7). When days grow dark, echo Paul’s confidence: “The Lord will repay.” His verdicts are perfect, His timing precise, His care personal—and that is enough. |
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