Today’s verse in our daily devotional has the potential to set our hearts free, if we choose to trust it. If we truly trust what Paul is saying in verse 19, then we will be able to live out some of the other commands that we have already discussed. In verse 14, Paul told us to bless those who persecute us. In verse 17, he told us to not repay evil for evil. Yesterday, in verse 18, he told us to live at peace with everyone, as far as it depends on us. Those become easier when we truly trust what Paul is going to show us in verse 19.
“Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’” (Romans 12:19)
Paul is telling us that it is God’s job to repay. It is God who works on our behalf. We don’t have to avenge ourselves when someone wrongs us. We don’t have to curse our persecutors. We don’t have to repay evil with evil. We can do our part and make the effort to have peace in all relationships. How? Why? Because God will avenge us. “Vengeance is mine,” He tells us.
So, instead of trying to avenge ourselves, Paul commands us to leave it to the wrath of God. That is strong language! God is more than able to deal with any wrongdoing against us. He is perfect and has a strong distaste for wrongdoing. He won’t turn a blind eye to wrongdoing against His children. Just like an earthly father would have the back of his son or daughter, a big and powerful God is ready to fight on behalf of His children.
Do you truly believe this verse? If so, why do we still think that we need to “get even” with everyone who hurts us? Why do we want to retaliate and hurt them back? The harsher reality for an accuser is having to deal with the God of the universe! Let God deal with your persecutors. Let God repay the evil. Let God deal with the other person in the tough relationship. You can trust Him and rest in the truth that He has your back.
We may never see how God avenges us in certain situations, but we must trust and know that the vengeance is His. We don’t have to put any effort or concern into repaying or defending ourselves. How freeing is that?!? To make it even better, what an enemy may mean for evil against us, God means for our good (Genesis 50:20). God fights for us and He uses what seems like evil for our good. Therefore, what do we have to worry about? Be set free today! What a truth! Join us back here on Monday as we continue on with verse 20! Similar truth to come!
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- Would you say that you truly believe what Paul is saying in Romans 12:19? Do you believe that God is able to avenge you?
- Think of a situation (past or present) when you could have or still have the chance to leave it to the wrath of God. Let Him fight for you!
2 thoughts on “Daily Devotional | Romans 12:19 | Leave It To God”
I just want you to know that this devotional was so good! When I read this line: “but we must trust and know that the vengeance is His.” I was comforted and reminded of so much truth that has been forgotten in my head and heart. I have never heard these scriptures spoken or taught like this before, and it has really blessed me this morning. I sent this devotional to my mom and brother because we are all going through similar times in our life and these verses speak right into the seasons that we are in. Clay, thank you for being a pioneer of this ministry and speaking and transforming lives through Christ. You are transforming my families life, more than you could ever know, and I want you to know that.
Wow, thank you for sharing, Marley! I am so glad that this study has been encouraging and helpful to you! Your kind words are always uplifting to us! We are praying for you and your family! God bless!