Have you ever shared a heartfelt concern with a friend, only to have that confidence betrayed? It happens among friends and even in church families.
What can you do? “I don’t get mad; I get EVEN!” Have you ever said that? It's not a wise statement! Think like that, or worse, live under that philosophy, and only more problems develop.
Our hearts are sometimes crushed by the words of a spouse, our children, and even someone in our church family. We hurt deeply. It can grow and linger into a grudge. You might let it grow into hate! Do you confront that person in anger? Do you take revenge against them? How can you recover from such painful betrayal?
First, it isn’t wrong to get angry. Where would anyone be if God destroyed us for our moments of anger? God says in His Word, “Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity.” (Ephesians4:26-27) An unknown assailant violated a man. A serious crime was perpetrated against him! Sure, he was upset about it. Yes, he wanted justice! His problem? He didn't have a single clue who did it! What could the man do to right the wrong? There was only one thing he could do! He had to LET GO, and LET GOD!
The man reported this foul deed to the police. They came. The man gave his statement to the Police Sergeant in the presence of his friend. The police were not very confident about apprehending the perpetrator.
What could the man do? He then remembered what God said to him about it: “Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19) Please know that God saw what happened! He knows who committed this violent act of hate. His punishment is sure.
The Lord judges in righteousness! We often judge with hearts of anger, vengeance, and even hate. Let the Lord take care of it. If you could “take care” of it, you might find yourself in a jail cell, or WORSE! Let God do the judging and the punishing!
You’d be better off allowing the Lord to judge your words, thoughts, and actions, so let Him also judge and take vengeance against evil people who’ve hurt you! Let God take revenge! Trust Him and live your life to honor God!