READ: Proverbs 20:22, 21:15, 24:12, 29:26
We’ve looked at
God’s passion for justice and the need for us to care for the poor, and
practice of measuring things carefully.
But what about when WE are treated poorly, or are oppressed? What should we do?
Our human nature is to take matters into our own hands. We may want to fight
back, directly or indirectly. Constant complaining, self-pity, even despair can
become our friends. This is the easy path, BUT we are called to the narrow
road.
Proverbs directs
us clearly - “Do not say, ‘I will repay evil’; wait for the LORD, and he will
deliver you” (20:22). One of the key words in this verse is, “wait”. How hard
this is! We’re not a patient people, are we? To wait for God to work is
difficult but we must realize that as One who is All-Wise and Good, He has
reasons for waiting. This is worth repeating – He has reasons for waiting! Of
course, this waiting does not mean we passively sit around and do nothing.
As we wait, we
pray. As we wait, we pray for strategies on any steps we can take (including
loving people who have hurt us, or setting boundaries). As we wait, we cry out
to God for deliverance. As we wait, we pray for promises. There is much we can
do while we wait. And above all, we praise Him in faith for the justice He will bring. It will bring us great joy
when we see His justice, wisdom and love lifted up high! And we’ll be glad in
the waiting.
God knows ALL!
“If you say, ‘behold, we did not know this,’ does not he who weighs the heart
perceive it?” (24:12). He knows even the motive our hearts and so we can
entrust all things to Him, even as we follow any specific steps He provides.
JOURNALING AND PRAYER
1.
Spend
some time writing down any injustices you’ve experienced or are currently
experiencing. Imagine placing them before Jesus. Thank Him and praise Him for
having a plan, and for His desire to bring justice.
2.
Ask
God to help you to grow in being patient. If you’re facing a difficult
situation right now, ask Him for: 1) any strategies He wants to give you 2) any
promises He wants to provide.
