Vengeance Is Mine

(Ephesians 4:26-27)

Righteous anger is necessary. However, when we are angry, we must be careful not to let it lead us into sin, and we should resolve it before the day ends, giving the devil no foothold. No matter how righteous our anger may be, human selfishness and self-centeredness make it difficult to maintain that anger in its pure form.

1. Human Limitation
Once a person becomes angry, they inevitably become vulnerable to sin. During their anger, they fall into self-centered thoughts. Consequently, what may have begun as a pure motive for anger gradually turns into a defensive reaction against perceived threats to their own interests: “I’m being treated unfairly. I’m hurt. How dare you ignore me? What do you think of me!” When these thoughts combine with anger, that anger deteriorates into selfishness.

2. Hatred and Vengeance
Selfish anger stirs up hatred, causing people to desire vengeance. In such a state, they may commit evil acts against those they hate, all the while believing their actions are justified. The devil prowls within the church, seeking opportunities to target such individuals. Moreover, those who harbor not only distorted anger but also the lies the devil craves are bound to become easy prey for the devil.

3. God’s Wrath
“Vengeance is Mine!” Vengeance belongs solely to God. If we attempt to take vengeance into our own hands when we face injustice, we overstep God’s inherent authority. Only God knows everything and can judge accurately. Instead of saying, “I will repay,” let us entrust everything to God’s wrath. On that fearful day of His wrath, as we look forward to the marvelous grace He will bestow upon us, let us strive to cultivate the new man in righteousness and holiness that He created.

Overseer Sung-Hyun Kim