What is the meaning of Proverbs 20:22?

Do not say, “I will avenge this evil!”

“Do not say, ‘I will avenge this evil!’” (Proverbs 20:22a)

• Revenge is explicitly forbidden. God reserves justice for Himself (Romans 12:19; Deuteronomy 32:35).

• Personal retaliation escalates sin instead of ending it (Proverbs 24:29; Matthew 5:39).

• Choosing restraint reflects trust in God’s character and keeps our own hearts from bitterness (Ephesians 4:31–32; 1 Peter 3:9).

• By refusing to repay evil with evil, believers mirror Christ, who “when He suffered, He did not threaten” (1 Peter 2:23).

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Wait on the LORD

“Wait on the LORD…” (Proverbs 20:22b)

• Waiting is active dependence—expecting God to act while continuing to obey Him (Psalm 37:7–9; Isaiah 40:31).

• It involves prayer (Psalm 25:5), patience (James 5:7–8), and confidence that God’s timing is perfect (Habakkuk 2:3).

• Waiting guards us from impulsive words and deeds that dishonor Christ (Psalm 141:3; Proverbs 14:29).

• Even when wronged, believers fix their eyes on the Lord, not on the offense (Micah 7:7; Lamentations 3:25–26).

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He will save you

“…and He will save you.” (Proverbs 20:22c)

• God promises deliverance—sometimes in this life, always in eternity (Psalm 34:17–19; 2 Thessalonians 1:6–7).

• His salvation may appear as vindication, protection, inner peace, or ultimate justice at Christ’s return (Psalm 37:39–40; Revelation 19:11).

• Trusting His salvation frees us to bless our enemies (Luke 6:27–28) and overcome evil with good (Romans 12:20–21).

• The cross proves God’s commitment to rescue; He did not spare His own Son, so He will not fail us in lesser battles (Romans 8:32).

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summary

Proverbs 20:22 calls believers to lay down the impulse for personal revenge, actively trust God’s timing, and rest in His certain deliverance. By refusing retaliation, waiting on the Lord, and relying on His saving power, we honor His sovereignty, reflect Christ’s example, and experience His faithful protection.