1 Samuel 24:10 (KJV)
Behold, this day thine eyes have seen how that the LORD had delivered thee to day into mine hand in the cave: and some bade me kill thee: but mine eye spared thee;
David, the chosen servant of God, was relentlessly pursued by King Saul, who sought to take his life. David sought refuge in the wilderness of Engedi, but Saul continued to pursue him. Eventually, both found themselves in the same cave, presenting David with the perfect opportunity to eliminate Saul and claim the throne. Though David was trained and fit to fight battles, this was the greatest test of all, the test of the integrity of his heart. Despite pressure from his trusted leaders to take action, David chose to exercise great restraint and respect for Saul, whom God had anointed, and he wouldn’t dare touch him. This demonstrated David’s unwavering trust in God’s timing and justice. Despite having ample justification for retaliation, David’s decision to spare Saul’s life showcased the true strength of mercy and forgiveness. It also exemplified David’s trust in divine justice rather than taking matters into his own hands. David was confident that if God chose him, he would ascend to the throne without eliminating anyone else anointed by God.
There are times in our lives when people mistreat us, and we have all felt the desire to take revenge at one point or another. Whenever evil is committed, the immediate human instinct is to take revenge, especially if we can do a corresponding injury to the offender. Society may tell us to do likewise. However, the lifestyle of God’s kingdom teaches that it is wrong to strike back or return evil for evil, whether by immediate retaliation or deferred action of vengeance. Deuteronomy 32:35 says, “I’m in charge of vengeance and payback, just waiting for them to slip up; And the day of their doom is just around the corner, sudden and swift and sure.” Leaving matters in the hands of God and waiting for His judgment are acts of faith that demonstrate trust in God rather than human ability. The Bible is also clear about not touching the anointed of God. Psalm 105:15 says, “Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.” It is crucial to refrain from passing judgment, condemning, or causing harm to individuals in positions of authority, particularly those appointed or anointed by God. Even if they are wrong, we are not responsible for administering punishment. It is best to leave it to God to hold His servants accountable. Many disregard the fear and respect necessary to refrain from speaking out against or causing harm to those anointed by God, but they will not go unpunished. While God may not send literal bears, there are undoubtedly consequences for harming the anointed. Those who do so will face severe repercussions.
Beloved, leave justice and vengeance to God, who is the ultimate judge. Recognize that it is not your place to punish those who have wronged you; if punishment is necessary, God will handle it. God’s protection is a source of great comfort, so no matter your challenges or threats, God is watching over you. He values and protects His own, ensuring that His plans for you are fulfilled. Trust that God is in control and that His timing is perfect, even when you face difficult situations. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of others. When you are tempted to return evil for evil, stop and think about your Christian faith and demonstrate the transformative power of God’s love in your life. Rely on God to right the wrongs you face, for the judgment of everyone is in the hands of God. Pray for the strength to love and forgive those who have wronged you, and ask God to help you trust in His perfect plan and timing. Today, take a far different approach to those who have done evil against you, forgive them, do good to them, and let God repay them for all the evil done against you. Embrace the power of forgiveness, for it is through this act that you truly demonstrate the love and mercy of God.
O Lord, help me never to take any form of revenge, but trust You, knowing that You have it all under control in Jesus’ Name.