Before our eyes, make known among the nations that you avenge the outpoured blood of your servants. (Ps. 79:10)
Working with people is challenging. Most of us have, at times, dealt with individuals who are difficult to please. I had one such client who was raising unreasonable complaints about my work performance and trying to attack me on a personal level as well. My hurt and frustration echoed the desperate pleas for revenge we find in today's psalm. But as I prayed for my client to be convicted and punished for the unjust pain being caused, I felt conviction in my spirit instead, as if God was telling me that this person could not handle that kind of correction right now.
God reminded me that his goal for both of us is to be victorious in our salvation, and he would lead each of his children through the process of being made holy in the sequence and gentle manner that each needed.
When the psalmist cried out for God to unleash his anger on Israel's enemies, he expressed very natural desires. But as recipients of the new covenant, we know that the gospel's invitation has been opened to all nations. God is drawing sinners, and he often waits to punish their sin in hopes that they will respond to his grace. It is fitting to pray for God's defense, but it is also the heart of God to pray for the salvation and healing of our enemies.
Pray for the salvation of those who have hurt you.
Debbie Shaw is a graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University and resides in North Carolina with her husband, Lee. She enjoys gardening, painting, reading, and coffee.
© 2021 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.