Justice and vengeance are two sides of the same coin. They can look very similar, but one brings us closer to God, while the other pulls us away…
“Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice, or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from them.” (Proverbs 24:17-18)
Justice and vengeance are two concepts that are closely linked, yet worlds apart. They are easily confused because they can seem to fulfill the same mission, bring about the same goal. But to pursue one and not the other is the difference between righteousness and sin.
I was watching a movie recently where the ending had the villain getting his comeuppance thanks to the crafty heroes. These types of movies make us cheer the good guys and feel satisfied with the fate of the bad guys. After all, the bad guy deserved it…
But where justice twists into vengeance is how the punishment is administered—and by whom.
Why we can have justice, but not vengeance
Vengeance is an attractive concept in our world. Look at the amount of media dedicated to vigilante heroes. While we know this is wrong, we can’t help but feel a dark thrill when bad guys get what they deserve.
This isn’t just seen in the criminal context. How often do we hear malicious gossip at work directed at someone who wronged the gossiper? How often do angry exes destroy the property of their unfaithful partner?
We say it’s justice because they deserved it or brought it on themselves. But taking the punishment into our own hands isn’t justice—it’s vengeance. And it’s not ours to mete out.
“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19).
We get caught up in the sinful need to see others pay and we take it upon ourselves to see that they do. But that’s not our role. Justice is done when we follow the rules of law in our homes and countries. Justice is done when we act according to God’s commandments.
But vengeance is when we step into the role only God should fill.
Patience is hard, especially in times of hurt and unfairness. But God asks us to wait. To hold back from wishing ill on others and instead let Him handle them. He knows their hearts, the good, the bad, and the ugly. But He also knows ours. Don’t let Him see the ugliness of vengeance in your heart, in need of discipline.
As you start this week, pray for patience and forgiveness for those who have hurt you. And then hand it over to God. Justice will be done—His way.
Have a blessed Monday!
Looking for more encouragement and inspiration today? Try these posts:
Discipline is Not a Dirty Word
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