(Romans 12:17-19) Repay no one evil for evil, but give
thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it
depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but
leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I
will repay, says the Lord."
Whether it be people or cosmic power and spiritual forces
that seek to harm or destroy you, Jesus has already been victorious over them
and vindication is His. Those who come against you, as a child of God, in the
end will be put to shame and disappointed in their efforts. The key here is to
have an eternal perspective and not to attempt to seek your own vengeance but
leave that to the Lord.
Seeking your own vengeance (revenge) or vindication (proving
yourself correct) is a tactic the enemy uses to pull you away from the Lord and
divert your attention from the Lord to yourself. The Lord desires you to turn
away from vengeance and vindication for two main reasons. First, so that those
around you (and those from whom you seek vengeance or vindication) will see the
love of Christ in you and be drawn to Him. Second, so that your attention will
remain on Him and you will not be consumed with selfishness.
Today, leave vengeance where it belongs: with the Lord. Trust
that the Lord will punish those who need to be punished and vindicate those who
need to be vindicated. Focus your attention on demonstrating the love of Christ
to everyone the Lord places on your path, especially those who seek your harm.
Questions For Discussion
How do you (realistically) go through life not focused on
vengeance and vindication?
Why does the enemy love you to seek vengeance and
vindication?
What is the Lord's purpose in assuring you that vengeance is
His?
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