Over the past week I have been confronted with injustices left, right and centre. I have been overlooked, excluded, disrespected and ignored, and yeah it hurts. As I prayed trying to calm my emotions down I told myself “The Lord will avenge you, just chill!” and as I reminded myself that Jesus weeps with me, I was comforted.
How do you deal with anger? When you have been wronged without a cause what is your response?
In the past when I’ve allowed my anger to lead me to avenge myself through petty acts, cursing or maltreating others, it has not only left me feeling bitter, but it also sucked out the fruit of peace, gentleness and kindness in my heart and slowly turned me into a mean-spirited person, just like my offender! To avenge ourselves is not only an act of disobedience but also indirectly calling God a liar. God is our defender, and avenging all the wrongdoings in this world is what he promises to do in his perfect time, we can trust him.
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19)
We live in a fallen world and we are bound to experience many injustices until our Lord returns as judge. It is a bitter pill to swallow but one that should teach you importance of waiting on the lord. The forbearance and longsuffering nature that God has towards us is the same nature we must reflect unto others. Yes it is down right hard, especially when emotions rise, but we can submit those hurts and waves of anger to God, trusting that he understands, he cares and will bring justice in his perfect timing.
So what should you do the next time you are deeply hurt and offended?
Bring it before God in prayer, ask for the strength to forgive the one who offended you, and move on with your life. It sounds simple, and the Holy Spirit can make it so if we yield ourselves to him humbly, but often times our pride gets in the way. When pride tries to rise up in your heart and cause you to sin against God, remind yourself of what great a penalty you have been forgiven by Christ and the mercies that God has shown you. That should overwhelm you with thanks and praise and melt away the hurt you feel from those around you.
Joanne Olayinka 