Reading
SAA Notes
Verse 6 reminds us that deeds not words of self-promotion should govern our assessment of others. This present century is one where self-promotion is expected and encouraged.
SJA Notes
* God of Light, may we do what is acceptable in Your sight today.
“Do not say, ‘I will repay evil’; wait for the LORD, and he will deliver you.”
Vengeance can be a tough subject.
Paul exhorts us in Romans 12,
“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.'”
In Deuteronomy 32 we read from a number of verses,
“Vengeance is mine, and recompense, for the time when their foot shall slip; for the day of their calamity is at hand, and their doom comes swiftly.”
“I will take vengeance on my adversaries and will repay those who hate me.”
“… For he avenges the blood of his children and takes vengeance on his adversaries.”
There is some importance here to wrestle with.
Our sense of right-ness and justice should never lead us to _revenge_ on people who do us or our loved ones ill.
It can be a very hard thing to do, to leave vengeance in the hands of the Lord.
How can we leave it alone, when our loved ones are hurt?
But.
But HE is the living God. HE is holy and just. HE does not slumber. HE keeps watch over His flock.
This is the God who will return as King, the Rider on the White Horse, treading the winepress of His own fury (Revelation 19).
This is our God.
We must leave vengeance to Him.
* Righteous God,
Please work righteousness in us, that we would abhor what You abhor.
Please make us wise in Your wisdom.
And please Lord, remind us to seek You out instead of our own vengeance.
Let us find refuge and peace in You, the God of all mercy and grace.
Amen.