Vengeance is the gift God wields against the enemies of His people. You probably think this a very odd gift, but remember that it’s a facet of God’s just character. Unlike all other gifts this blog has discussed to this point, ones given to believers and the church to develop Christlike character, God reserves vengeance for His use alone.
Why does he do this?
We are sinful, and live in a sin-broken world. Our motivations are nothing like His. Webster says revenge is to retaliate in kind or degree, (the sort of tit-for-tat impulsive reaction which results in ongoing blood feuds), or, to inflict injury in return for an insult. Which basically means we blow things out of proportion. Also, as if that weren’t bad enough, we’re consumed by an ill-considered desire to get even, and take unholy satisfaction in the plotting.
Any vengeance we take on our own impulse will only increase our guilt. David was on the verge of rash reaction to Nabal, until Abigail’s wise words and actions defused his rage.
Vengeance is the gift God wields.
In the early 1970’s there were two comedy television shows that produced temporarily widely-known sayings: “Here comes the judge,” and “God will get you for that.” Though the shows used the words mockingly, for mere comedy’s sake, the script writers unintentionally expressed elements of God’s character. He would not be a God worth worship if he ignored wrongdoing, and the pleas of his oppressed people.
In Jeremiah 15:15-16, we find proof that it is permissible to ask God to wield revenge. “You understand, O Lord; remember me and care for me. Avenge me on my persecutors. You are long-suffering—do not take me away; think of how I suffer reproach for your sake. When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, O Lord God Almighty.”
Vengeance is the gift God wields to destroy his enemies and relieve His people.
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Ruth DeMaat
Heidi Kortman
Lee Raterink
Heidi Kortman