Session 7

I want justice

From Ecclesiastes: A 20-Day Devotional

It’s a story for the ages. The person we thought we were close to hurt us so badly it keeps us up at night. The very thought of the problem brings tears to our eyes. Then the hurt turns into anger.

We want revenge, but that is not our job. In Ecclesiastes 3:17, we learn “there will be a time for every activity, a time to judge every deed.” As badly as we may want to get back at the person, God has already put a plan in place to handle the situation. There is no need for us to do anything. We just have to be patient with God’s timing.

None of us are going to go through life without being hurt. And, the human response is to want to make the people who hurt us pay, but Romans 12:19 reminds us that justice is God’s job, not ours. Our job is to forgive them, as Jesus has forgiven us, and trust Him to lead them to repentance.

Jeremiah 22:3 says, “This is what the LORD says: Do what is just and right…” God has told us in many different ways He will handle any situation we give Him. He loves us enough to right any wrong that may come our way. Our job is simple: Believe He will do exactly what He said He would do.

Reflect:

• How are you currently dealing with a hurtful situation?
• Have you forgiven the person who hurt you?
• What is one step you can take today to forgive that person, and trust God with the situation?