Jason Silver

Thursday, February 8th, 2018

Evil for Evil

“Vengeance is mine, says this Lord.”

The above quote is well known, and often quoted - it can be found in Deuteronomy 32:35 and Romans 12:17-19.

“35 Vengeance is Mine, and recompense;
Their foot shall slip in due time;
For the day of their calamity is at hand,
And the things to come hasten upon them.”

- and -

17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.

But just because we say it, just because we read it and nod our heads, well that doesn't mean we live it. Are there people in your life for whom you wish God would bring swift revenge?

I asked myself that question. When I considered revenge toward those difficult people in my past, I immediately hesitated, because there are probably people whom I've offended, hurt, or disappointed who wish revenge upon me as well. That's a sobering thought, isn't it? It might not be true, but it's possible.

I think a humble, honest attitude can go a long way to finding peace in this world. I've never been perfect, and I'm certainly not innocent.
The Psalmist in this passage is aroused by the injustice around him: the widow killed, the stranger accosted, the orphan murdered. He sees the cocky bravado of these offenders who say, “God doesn't see any of our behaviour.”

Oh Lord, show this godless generation that you are listening. You do know. You want to bring us to yourself, restore us, make us more loving and peace-seeking.

May it be true!