Devotional: The Payback Romans 12:13-21

“Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord” (Rom. 12:19, NASB).

As I am scrolling through Facebook, I see an entry that really catches my attention. The writer is complaining about the president of the United States. He expresses that the president should be dealt a physical act that causes pain and possibly injury. This writer acknowledges that he is a sinner, and he is thankful for God’s mercy. Yet, he wants to do harm to the president.

In Romans 12, the apostle Paul writes to the church. In the church there are different gifts given to different people. This causes conflict and hostilities among the members. It even leads to persecution. How should a believer deal with hostilities and persecution? Should a Christian want to do harm to the president of the United States because he or she does not agree with the policies and practices of president?

As I am thinking about this issue I am reminded of two different mindsets. The first way of thinking comes from a 1973 hit song, “The Payback” recorded by James Brown. In the song Brown takes the position that he is out to get revenge on the people that have done wrong to him. The second way of thinking comes from the Scriptures. In the scriptures the Lord is said to be a God of vengeance (Deut. 32:35; Ps. 94:1).

In our scripture passage, Paul reminds the church that vengeance belongs to the Lord. We are to live by the law of love, and love does not seek to harm anyone whether friend or enemy. Paul says, “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse” (v. 14). Instead of seeking revenge we are to seek to be peacemakers. “But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (v. 20-21, NASB).

Prayer: Lord, teach us to do good to everyone, leaving vengeance to You. Amen.