Give God Your Revenge

A recent newspaper news item spoke about two teenage boys who killed their classmate, as he used to bully them. They killed him out of revenge. Shocking!

In 1 Samuel 25:4-9, we further learn that David, at personal cost, had been protecting Nabal's men and herds from any threats. It was because of the protective presence of David and his men that Nabal was able to live in safety and security while maximizing his profits. Up to this point, David had not asked for anything in return.

One day David requested some goods for himself and his men. Instead of being grateful for all that David and his men had done to him and his people, he insulted David and his men. When David heard about it, he was hurt and filled with revenge vowed to kill all males in Nabal’s house (1 Sam. 25:21, 22).

However, Nabal’s wife, Abigail, met David and his men who were on the way seeking revenge. The wise woman Abigail counseled David saying, “Don’t be offended and seek revenge. Until now the Lord has fought all your battles and so let the Lord fight this one also.” (1 Samuel 1 Samuel 25: 24-31 paraphrased)

David wisely heeded Abigail’s words and withdrew leaving the matter in God’s hands. Later, when Abigail told Nabal what she did, “his heart died within him, and he became like a stone. Then it happened, after about ten days, that the Lord struck Nabal, and he died” (1 Sam. 25:37, 38). God took vengeance on David’s behalf.

The Lord is no respecter of persons. (Acts 10:34) He is not a God of partiality. (Romans 12:11) What he did for David, he will do for you and me as well.

There are times when we are offended by someone and our base instincts kick in. Revenge comes naturally to us. Movies and gaming apps supply us with endless motivation to “blast the bad guys”. Our fallen nature tells us that there is victory when our enemies are “justly punished” or “taken out.”

However, God commands His people to do something supernatural. “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.” (Romans 12:19) When we are wronged by another, let us trust in God to settle accounts.

Now, this does not mean we cannot defend ourselves, either our reputation, physical or financial well being. It also does not mean civil authorities cannot be informed of the wrong. All this is permissible.

What the Bible means is we cannot seek to attack and destroy another out of our hurt, angry feelings. God will settle all accounts in the end.

While Jesus was on the cross, “they hurled their insults at [Christ], but He did not retaliate. Instead, He entrusted Himself to Him (Father God) who judges justly. (1 Peter 2:23)

40 Day Bible Reading Plan

Matthew 14-19

Give God Your Revenge

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