GOD’S WORD FOR YOU
PSALM 79:10-11
10 Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?”
Before our eyes, make known among the nations
that you avenge the outpoured blood of your servants.
11 May the groans of the prisoners come before you;
by the strength of your arm preserve those condemned to die.
Whenever the enemies of God’s people think they have won a victory, they bellow some taunt that’s always a variation of, “Where is their God?” These verses are a prayer to God for vengeance on those who persecute his people. We leave this to God, and we never seek revenge, even for ourselves or our loved ones (Deuteronomy 32:35). Paul says: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him a drink,” and, “overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:20).
Whom do you see as the biggest evil in your life? The most troublesome person? Sadly, some people might answer, “My spouse.” If your spouse is trouble for you, remember your marriage vow, and it might help to remind him or her of their marriage vow. Write it in a note, or a blank greeting card. “I love you; I miss our friendship. I like being with you.” This might go a long way toward healing when talking has broken down somehow.
Pray through the Ten Commandments about the people who seem to be enemies. “I have sinned against God—forgive me for this, O Lord. And I fear that I have sinned against my enemy (or such and such a person) with a sin against the ___ Commandment.” Think about the commandments, and what they teach us to love, honor, protect; how they instruct us toward godly living. Think about the way Jesus explained them. Confess your sins, and know that in the cross of Christ they are forgiven. Don’t believe your TV when it spits out lies about never asking forgiveness (“the right people never ask for it, and the wrong people might use it as a weapon”). Offer your apology, and let the forgiveness of God wash over you and make you clean.
In Christ,
Pastor Timothy Smith
Archives by Wisconsin Lutheran Chapel: http://www.wlchapel.org/worship/daily-devotion/
Pastor Smith serves St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, New Ulm, Minnesota