Happy Tuesday Bible Journaling Family,
Today’s Readings includes; 2 Samuel 3 and Psalm 35
Last week, I found myself in a middle of a conversation where false accusations where being said about a colleague and myself. It hurt. After trying to figure out where the misconceptions occurred or what else I could say or do,( even though we hadn’t done anything wrong) I was at a loss. In my flesh at times, there are moments a quick witted comment or a snarky attitude can come out. My revenge…. Not in this case though. This situation made me reflect on the reading in 2 Samuel 3.
In the middle of 2 Samuel 3:26-29 you read the revenge that Joab took on Abner. This revenge was displayed by Joab murdering him because of the loss of his brother. How serious and sad. I reflected and thought even though our situations are never this extreme, what does my revenge look like? When wronged in any way what is our response? Do I wait and trust in God to have his justice or take it into my own hands. What are my actions, words, or thoughts? Do they represent God? Prayerfully I try to think of verses like, Romans 12:19. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written….
When we seek revenge in any fashion, doesn’t it impact your heart? Mind? In a quick witted comment I can leave myself remorseful and questioning my flesh like actions. I model my lack of trust. God, I need you in these moments of weakness. When discussing this scenario with a close friend, he reminded me of the book of Ephesians 4. Ephesians 4:1-32 reminds of points like; To walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which we have been called, with humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love… to speak the truth in love… A new life where we let no corrupting words come out of our mouth, but only words that build others up. Revenge is not mine, it is His.
Psalm 35:1 Contend O Lord with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me.
Dear God,
Thank you for your scripture. That in all parts of our words, there are Your words that remind us of how we should respond, and Who’s we are. God we pray for wisdom, guidance, and a focus on you and your love in the moments we are week. It’s not about us, it’s about you. That in this vapor of a life there are many moments that can leave us focusing on our own pride and not on You. God, I pray that we turn our focus on You! Trust you take all situations and make them yours. We love you!
Leviticus 19:20 You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself.