Vengeance Is Not Ours

“Beloved, do not demand vengeance yourself, but give place to God’s wrath, for it is written: Vengeance is mine. I will demand vengeance, says the Lord.”

For those who hold grudges or vengeance against others, there is nothing positive in their heart, but only evil designs. Saul harbored hatred and grudge against David because many people praised David: “Saul defeated thousands of enemies, but David was tens of thousands.” Because Saul’s heart was filled with hatred, the expressions that came out were only negative things, both through words and actions.

Revenge will only create inner suffering for the perpetrator. Joseph is an example of a person who is able to love and forgive his enemies. Although persecuted and made to suffer by his brothers Yusuf did not hold the slightest grudge, but instead he showed his love and generosity. “Indeed you have devised evil against me, but God has devised it for good, in order to do as it is now, which is to save the life of a great nation. So don’t be afraid, I will eat you and eat the children. your son too.” .

We are not allowed to take revenge on the enemy because revenge is the absolute right of God. Whoever seeks revenge against others means he has stolen the absolute right of God. Vengeance is not ours, but belongs to God Himself. It is our part to allow God to handle other people. Let God himself act because He has his own way and time to deal with problems that occur.

What must be done is this: “…if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink! In doing so you will heap coals of fire on his head.”. So the proper way to treat an enemy is to show him love and mercy. “…defeat evil with good”. Loving, being generous, and forgiving the enemy are ours; God’s part is to finish in His own way and time.