Do you hate ISIS? Is your mind filled with the desire that
they will get what they deserve? What about those who are your adversaries, who
do evil things against you? Do you desire to see them punished? Or is there in
you a realization that there is another way out for them?
David spends the first few verses of Psalm 7 talking about
his enemies/oppressors who are seeking to kill him. He does want their evil to
come to an end (9) and understands that God is his ultimate protector (10) who
does bring righteous judgment (11) and even causes the evil oppressors to be caught
in their own traps (14-16) .
But then he mentions another way for “the evil of the wicked
[to] come to an end.” There is the possibility of their repentance (12). These
wicked ones could turn from their sin and turn to God and receive his
forgiveness and cleansing. God is a God who forgives sinners, no matter how bad
(see Paul, thief on the cross, John Newton and me).
Wouldn’t that be far better for ISIS and your personal enemies
also? Not only would it be better for our enemies, it would be better for us
if, in our own hearts, we desired their repentance more than we wanted to see
them punished. But, you say, it’s so difficult to think that way. You’re right,
but we have the mind of Christ and he will enable us to be that kind of person
if we trust him (Philippians 4:13).
Prayer: Father, you tell me to love my enemies. Let’s just
be honest. Lord, that’s so hard it is beyond my personal ability to do it. So
please, Lord, give me the grace that I need to love those who hate me and hate
you. Please help me to desire to see even the worst sinners repent and know
your grace and love.
No comments:
Post a Comment