Romans 12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath for it is written, Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.

 

Paul came under great persecution. In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul wrote in detail everything he had been through. (2 Corinthians 11:16-33) The Lord saw Paul through it all. Paul never sought revenge on those who persecuted him. He simply moved on and left the vengeance to the Lord.

 

The Bible often refers to persecution and difficulties as temptations. The Greek word for temptations is peirasmos and means “tests, trials, and adversity, but also a solicitation or provocation to deal with the situation outside of the Way of the Lord.” We might say it is to take the matter into your own hands and not trust the Lord to deal with it.

 

In Acts 20:19 Paul said, Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews. Through it all, Paul remained humble and faithful. He trusted the Lord to protect him and provide for him. He never sought revenge on those who persecuted him because he believed the Lord would take care of that situation.

 

He was called to preach the Gospel to anyone who would listen. If they would not listen or if they came against him with violence, he just moved on. I’m sure many times Paul thought his life was over and he was fine with that too. He was ready to serve and ready to die. He was content in every situation.

 

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul speaks on this subject. But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:10-13)

 

What an example for us today! It doesn’t matter what people say or do. We may come under threat from our enemies. We may have to suffer in many ways but never lose sight of the fact that God will never leave you nor forsake you. He will fight your battle. He will repay the wicked. You don’t have to worry about that. Just place your full faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and do what you have been Called to do. God is very good at doing His job. Amen.

 

Only God can………..turn the tide

 

Lesson learned,         Doreen

 

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