Should I forgive or take vengeance? What are the results of each? Due to our sinful nature, we want to bring payback to people who have hurt us. But what would the Lord desire for us?
One of the greatest stories in the Bible that explores this question is when Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers. Through a series of events and through no fault of his own, Joseph went from a slave to being in prison.
When the Pharoah had a dream, no one could interpret it. Remarkably his cupbearer remembered Joseph, who interpreted his dream when he was in prison. Joseph was then summoned by the Pharaoh and interpreted his dream successfully. To Joseph’s surprise, with his wise interpretation and advice to Pharoah, he was made second only to Pharoah in Egypt.
Joseph Chooses to Forgive his Brothers
Joseph’s brothers came to purchase grain during a drought, and Joseph was in charge. Although Joseph recognized his brothers, they did not recognize him. Joseph later revealed himself to his brothers, who feared for their lives. Would Joseph now take revenge upon him?
Genesis 50:19 But Joseph replied, “Don’t be afraid of me. Am I God that I can punish you? 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. 21 No, don’t be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children.” So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them. [1] By forgiving his brothers, Joseph freed himself from the temptation of retribution and restored his relationship with his brothers.
The Jews take Vengeance
A wicked Persian official named Haman plotted to kill all the Jews, but God intervened through Queen Esther. Instead of Jews being killed, King Xerxes had Haman put to death and then issued a decree that allowed the Jews to defend themselves. Esther 9:16 Meanwhile, the other Jews throughout the king’s provinces had gathered together to defend their lives. They gained relief from all their enemies, killing 75,000 of those who hated them. But they did not take any plunder.[2]
In hindsight, was this the best way? What if they decided to fast, pray, and ask the Lord what to do? I believe the Apostle Paul gives good advice regarding taking revenge. Romans 12:17 Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. 18 Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. 19 Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. [3] I am thankful the Lord does not take revenge for our sins but offers us the gift of salvation. Should I forgive or take vengeance? To learn more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/triumph-of-the-jews
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.