1 Samuel 26:9 (KJV)
And David said to Abishai, Destroy him not: for who can stretch forth his hand against the Lord’s anointed, and be guiltless?
God had chosen David, a young shepherd, to be the next king, which led to jealousy and hostility from Saul toward David. Saul saw David as a threat to his throne and relentlessly pursued him to kill him. In one of these instances, David and his men came upon Saul’s camp while Saul was asleep, and David was presented with an opportunity to kill Saul and end his persecution. However, David refused to harm Saul, referring to him as “the Lord’s anointed,” showing his deep respect for God’s authority and timing. Even when given the opportunity to kill king Saul, who was relentlessly pursuing him, David chose to honor Saul as the Lord’s anointed. He resisted the temptation to take matters into his own hands, trusting instead in God’s timing and justice. David’s steadfast adherence to principle presents a compelling counter-narrative, advocating for rejecting retributive justice and encouraging reliance on the overarching wisdom of God’s ultimate plan. Deuteronomy 32:35 says, “To me belongeth vengeance, and recompence; their foot shall slide in due time: for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste.” By refraining from taking vengeance, David shows humility and trust in God’s plan.
It is an undeniable reality that we inhabit an increasingly malevolent and perilous world. Nevertheless, there is cause for great optimism, for no matter how menacing the world and its inhabitants become, God’s protection is assured for His chosen ones. When confronted with conflict, whether in our personal lives or workplaces, it’s natural to feel the urge to take matters into our own hands. However, the pursuit of immediate resolution can cloud our judgment. We must remain mindful not to act impulsively, as doing so can harm those whom God has placed in positions of authority. Instead, we should approach conflicts thoughtfully and respect the structures in place. As believers, we are to align our actions with God’s principles, even when it’s challenging. Instead of forcing outcomes, we are called to wait on the Lord. 2 Thessalonians 1:6 says, “Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;” No one can avenge like our God! Attempting to seek vengeance is essentially trying to assume God’s role and such actions’ consequences are significant. By entrusting matters to God and patiently awaiting His judgment, we exemplify true faith and demonstrate our steadfast trust in His wisdom rather than relying solely on our capabilities.
Beloved, no matter how serious or terrible your situation may seem, rest assured that God is deeply invested in your welfare. He has neither forgotten nor forsaken you. It doesn’t matter the magnitude of the problems confronting you; God is never late. He will stand by you during all the attacks of the enemies. Resist the desire to retaliate, but allow God to judge your enemies. Let go of any grudges and show love and kindness to everyone you encounter. Love and forgive those who hate you and live peacefully with all men. When someone wrongs you, resist the temptation to retaliate. Instead, choose forgiveness and self-control. Avoid rushing into decisions out of impatience. Make decisions based on your values and faith, even when it’s inconvenient or goes against popular opinion. Recognize the importance of honoring those in positions of authority, especially those anointed by God, while trusting God to bring about change. Pray for discernment and wait for God to open the right doors at the right time. Remember, God will judge your enemies according to the work of their hands, and He will give them sorrow of heart until they are completely destroyed.
O Lord, grant me the self-control to act with integrity and grace, especially toward those who challenge or wrong me in Jesus’ Name.