Who causes you pain? Who breaks promises, repeatedly crushing your heart or knowing just what to say to hurt you? Who does regrettable things but doesn’t regret them?
It’s emotionally exhausting to be the collateral damage of someone’s bad day and evil actions. Hurt people (you) tend to hurt people (them), but God’s Word forbids revenge and retaliation. “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord” (Romans 12:19). This passage shows revenge is wrong, but it does say God brings the heat of fiery judgment.
So here’s the big question: Is it okay to pray that God’s justice falls upon those who’ve hurt you?
In Acts 7, Jewish leaders heard Stephen, a Christian, tell the truth that Jesus was crucified, rose from the dead, and stands next to the Father in glory. They dragged him outside the city and began to stone him. During that onslaught of deadly rock strikes, Stephen prayed for his attackers: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60).
That prayer was answered! One of those who approved of Stephen’s death was Saul, who became Paul, one of the greatest Christian missionaries ever. Stephen prayed for those who attacked him.
Want a better boss? Pray for your boss. Want a better relationship with a family member? Pray daily for that person. Pray for their restoration, not for revenge. Pray and watch what God does!
