Proverbs 20:22 · KJV
"Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee."
King James Version
What does Proverbs 20:22 mean? →Passage Context
Devotional Reflection
Satan uses vengeance to destroy both the innocent and the guilty. Once vengeance becomes the driving force, the injured party can be suddenly overcome with rage and hatred. This poison infects everything the vindictive individual touches. On earth, it is evident that justice will never be perfect and complete, regardless of the "goodness" of the prevailing legal system. But God will not only bring about justice; He will also deliver us from the oppressor's hands and from the poison of hatred.
Prayer
Forgiving Lord, God of all justice and unfailing love, I beseech You to work in the justice system of my country. Make it more fair and accurate. Expose and remove from power those who purchase or sell justice. Handle the violent and oppressors with Your divine intervention. Please, Lord, by the power of Your Spirit, move me to extend forgiveness to others and to await Your justice. Protect me from the venom of an unforgiving and vindictive heart. May my attitude, behavior, and response to those who wrong me bring them to a saving knowledge of Your Son. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Vengeance is a terrible and cruel method to punish those whom we believe have harmed us. Our certainty of just rewards comes from the LORD. Let Him handle it. Excessive vengeance only leads to shattered people and ruined lives. Worse, it leads to a breakdown of character.
Prayer
Through your Spirit, Abba Father, please empower me to be patient as you correct the injustices perpetrated against me. Please assist me in being more concerned about the salvation of those who may have offended me than I am about getting even. Please give me more of a heart like your Son, Jesus, in whose precious name I pray. Amen.
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