As Christians, we’re called to emulate Christ in our lives. We’re called to love our enemies, to pray for those who persecute us, and to turn the other cheek when we’re wronged. But let’s be honest—it’s not always easy. When someone hurts us, betrays us, or acts unjustly towards us, our natural inclination might be to seek revenge or harbor feelings of anger and resentment. We’re not immune to these human emotions, even as followers of Christ.
The Bible acknowledges the reality of our emotions. In Ephesians 4:26, we’re told, “In your anger do not sin”: recognizing that anger itself is not sinful, but how we respond to it can be. Similarly, in Psalm 4:4, David implores, “Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.” This suggests that it’s natural to feel anger but crucial to manage it appropriately.
So, what do we do when we’re faced with the temptation to seek revenge or hold onto bitterness? How do we find peace in the midst of our hurt and anger?
The answer lies in surrendering to God and allowing Him to fight our battles for us. In Romans 12:19, we’re reminded, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” This verse reassures us that justice belongs to God, and He will ultimately right every wrong. We can find comfort in knowing that we don’t have to carry the burden of vengeance; it’s not our responsibility.
Trusting in God’s sovereignty and justice enables us to release our grip on anger and resentment. It allows us to relinquish control and place our faith in His plan, even when we don’t understand it. It’s a surrender that brings freedom—a freedom from the weight of bitterness and the chains of unforgiveness.
But what about forgiveness? How do we forgive those who have wronged us, especially when the wounds run deep?
Forgiveness is not condoning or excusing the sin committed against us. Instead, it’s a deliberate choice to release the offender from the debt they owe us. It’s letting go of our right to seek revenge and entrusting justice to God. Forgiveness is a process, often requiring time and prayer, but it’s essential for our own healing and spiritual growth.
Jesus exemplified forgiveness on the cross when He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). Even in His darkest hour, Jesus chose to extend grace and mercy to His enemies. He showed us that forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but of strength—a strength found in our identity as children of God.
As Christians, we’re called to follow Christ’s example, even in forgiveness. Colossians 3:13 urges us, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Our capacity to forgive is rooted in the boundless forgiveness we’ve received from God.
In letting God avenge us, we find peace that surpasses understanding. We release the burden of anger and resentment, trusting in God’s justice. And as we forgive our enemies, we experience the transformative power of grace—the grace that sets us free from the sin that was done against us.
Let us, therefore, embrace forgiveness as a sacred act, knowing that it reflects the heart of our Savior. May we surrender our desire for vengeance and allow God to work in and through us, bringing healing and reconciliation to our broken world. And may we always remember that in Christ, we find the strength to love even those who hurt us.
Lazarevic Ministries 