June 7

May the LORD judge between you and me, and may the LORD take vengeance on you, but my hand will never be against you. — 1 Sam 24:12 BSB

There are often misunderstandings about bearing wrongs. People ask, “Is there no justice in situations like David’s? Must we quietly endure wrongs without any punishment for the one who hurt us?” Our sense of right can be so outraged that it’s hard to accept the teaching that we should never seek revenge or resist but rather turn the other cheek. The Bible teaches that it’s not our place to punish those who wrong us. Our hands are too clumsy to handle such delicate matters of justice.

We aren’t required to say that the wrong done to us was right, but we must recognize that justice is God’s responsibility, not ours. Our part is to be patient, meek, and leave the whole matter in God’s hands, trusting Him to make things right.

Two passages clarify this: “Do not take revenge, my 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) And speaking of Jesus, “When they hurled their insults at Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats. Instead, He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” (1 Peter 2:23)