Walking By Faith | The God Who Answers in His Time

"Anything other than God’s plan carried out in God’s way and in God’s timing amounts to self-reliance." - Charles Spurgeon, 19th century English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

Focus Scripture: Romans 12:19 (NIV) - "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."

Introduction: While instinct urges us to retaliate when wronged, Scripture calls us to a higher standard. Recognizing that our fight isn't against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12), we must leave vengeance to God. 

He promises to deal with our enemies, but He does so according to His perfect justice and timing, not our impulse for immediate revenge. 

What Does This Mean for Us?

I. Vengeance belongs to God. In other words, He does it His way, not ours. We are instructed not to repay evil with evil. Why? Because God is the ultimate judge and justice is perfect, whereas ours is motivated by anger. Let's break this down:

• The Command: "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone." Romans 12:17
• The Promise: "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
• Our Action: Instead of plotting revenge, we are commanded to love our enemies and pray for them (Matthew 5:44), which "heaps burning coals" on their heads---an idiom for leading them to repentance or strengthening our own character.

II. God’s timing is perfect. We are talking about His timing and not ours. It can sometimes seem like evil is thriving and that God is slow to act. Yet, the Bible cautions us against becoming impatient or envious of those who do wrong. We are provided with:

• The Warning: "Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away" (Psalm 37:1-2).
• The Command: "Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes" (Psalm 37:7).
• The Reality: God has an appointed time for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1). His delay is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of patience allowing space for repentance (2 Peter 3:9), yet His judgment will surely come.

III. God turns evil into good. God not only deals with enemies, but He also has the power to use their attacks for our good and His glory. Such as:

• Example (Joseph): "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20).
• Protection: "No weapon forged against you will prevail…" (Isaiah 54:17).
• Refining Trials: The trials forced upon us by enemies build character, strengthening our confidence and reliance on God.

IV. How to act while waiting; or application in one’s life. 

• Place Your Trust in God: Following Jesus’ example, choose not to retaliate when insulted, but entrust yourself to the One who judges justly (1 Peter 2:23).
• Pray for Enemies: Seek their salvation and transformation, modeling Stephen’s prayer for his murderers (Acts 7:60).
• Do Good: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink" (Romans 12:20).
• Stand Strong: Do not panic. Patiently trust that God will make things right.

Application Questions:

1. When have you felt frustrated by God’s timing in bringing justice? What did that reveal about your faith?
2. How can you actively “wait” on God while experiencing injustice, rather than simply being passive or becoming bitter?
3. What is the difference between doubting God’s justice and waiting on (trusting) God’s timing?

The Bottom Line: God handles enemies with perfect holiness, mercy, and justice in His own time. Therefore, our role is to walk in obedience and love, trusting Him to fight our battles. 

Prayer: "Lord, I thank You that I can let go of the need for revenge. I place those who have hurt me into Your hands, trusting Your perfect timing and justice. Please fill my heart with love for them and help me to rest in Your care. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Sincerely with the Grace of God,

Sloane