Resentments fill hearts and control minds. They are easy to collect and store in dark crevices deep inside while we wait for the right moment to “settle a score.” It is amazing how much more room we seem to have for resentments than we do for love. Perhaps it is because we want to be like God and not only set standards and pass judgment on what others do to us, but become the jury and executioner.
If we could ever look at this “getting even” objectively, it might amaze us. Unless there is an accepted way to measure a wrong it is impossible to know the appropriate method to apply to “get even.” It might be too little or too much and rarely “just right.”
For example: What are we to do if someone treats us or a loved one unfairly? Speaks an untruth about us? Exaggerates a fault? Does not pay back the money we loaned them? Tries to ruin our reputation? Ridicules us for an honest mistake? Sells us an inferior product? Does not honor a service contract? Tells us a lie?
Most of our “getting evens” are subjective and devised to achieve what we think and feel is appropriate. We are warned not to do that!
“Do not say, ‘I’ll pay you back for this wrong!’ Wait for the Lord, and He will avenge you.” One translator inserts the word “expectantly” after the word wait. In other words, “You know that this is up to God and He, in His impeccable timing, will come to your aid.” God is our Savior and Redeemer and He will do what is right in His eyes - not our eyes.
There is a warning in Genesis that demands our attention: “Far be it from you (to do the work of God)! Will not the Judge of all the earth do what is right?”
We must never assume God’s responsibilities!
Prayer: Father, “getting even” is a natural thing to want to do. But it is never the right thing to do. Cleanse us from this sin! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture for Today: Proverbs 20:22 Do not say, “I’ll pay you back for this wrong!” Wait for the Lord, and he will avenge you.
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