As believers indwelt by the Spirit of Christ, we are called to live in a manner that reflects His character and teachings. One of the profound aspects of this calling is the instruction to leave vengeance in the hands of Yeshua. This TRUTH is rooted deeply in Scripture and is essential for our spiritual growth and witness to the world.
Leaving Vengeance in the Hands of Yeshua:
The immovable TRUTH of leaving vengeance to God is explicitly stated in both the Old and New Testaments. In Deuteronomy 32:35, God declares, “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.” This verse establishes that vengeance belongs to God alone, and it is His prerogative to execute justice.
The Apostle Paul reiterates this principle in Romans 12:19, where he writes, “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.” Paul encourages believers to trust in God’s righteous judgment and to refrain from taking matters into their own hands.
The Example of Yeshua
Yeshua Himself exemplified this principle during His earthly ministry. Despite facing severe opposition, betrayal, and ultimately crucifixion, He did not seek revenge. Instead, He entrusted Himself to the Father, who judges righteously (1 Peter 2:23). Yeshua’s response to injustice was one of forgiveness and love, even towards those who wronged Him.
In Matthew 5:38-39, Yeshua teaches, “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.” This radical teaching challenges us to respond to wrongdoing with grace and mercy, leaving vengeance to God.
Trusting in God’s Justice
Leaving vengeance in the hands of Yeshua requires a deep trust in God’s justice and sovereignty. It means believing that He sees every injustice and will ultimately set things right. This trust is rooted in the character of God, who is described as a righteous judge (Psalm 7:11) and a defender of the oppressed (Psalm 9:9).
When we take vengeance into our own hands, we are essentially saying that we do not trust God to handle the situation. However, when we release our desire for revenge and entrust it to Him, we demonstrate our faith in His perfect wisdom and timing.
The Impact on Our Witness
Our response to injustice can have a profound impact on our witness to the world. When we choose to leave vengeance to Yeshua, we reflect His character and demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel. This counter-cultural response can open doors for conversations about our faith and the hope we have in Christ.
In Romans 12:20-21, Paul writes, “Therefore ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” By responding to evil with good, we shine the light of Christ in a dark world and point others to the ultimate source of justice and redemption.
As indwelt believers, we are called to leave vengeance in the hands of Yeshua. This requires a deep trust in God’s justice, a commitment to follow the example of Christ, and a desire to reflect His character to the world. By doing so, we not only grow in our faith but also become powerful witnesses to the transformative power of the Gospel. Let us, therefore, entrust our desire for vengeance to the One who judges righteously and seek to overcome evil with good.
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#13 Revelation Love | Revenge