Be Still Devotional: Day 14

Devotion for Thursday February 27
Rynie Badenhorst | Global Outreach Pastor

Scripture
Romans 12:19
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.”

Devotional Thought
Waiting on God in the face of personal hurt or after someone has wronged you can feel like one of the hardest things we are called to do as Christians. Our natural reaction is to seek justice or worse, vengeance on our terms. But Romans 12:19 reminds us to relinquish that desire and trust God as the ultimate judge. God’s call to "leave it to the wrath of God" isn’t an invitation to ignore wrongs; it’s a reassurance that He sees, He knows, and He will act in His perfect timing and righteousness.

When we take matters into our own hands, we may find temporary relief but often at the expense of peace, relationships, or even our walk with God. Trusting Him with the outcome allows us to experience freedom from bitterness and the burning burden of carrying vengeance in our hearts. It requires surrender, prayer, reading the Bible, and a stillness of spirit that trusts in His sovereign care and timing.

As we reflect on this, consider Jesus who, though He was wronged, did not retaliate but entrusted Himself to God who judges justly (1 Peter 2:23). When we follow His example, we open the door for God’s healing work in us and in others.

Reflection Questions

• In what situations in your life are you tempted to take justice into your own hands?
• How might releasing vengeance to God bring peace to your heart?
• In what ways can you actively practice trusting God in moments of uncertainty or pain?

Suggested prayer/action step
Prayer:
Lord, I surrender my desire for getting even or for vengeance to You. Help me trust in Your perfect justice and timing. Give me a heart that seeks peace, prayer, and a spirit that rests in Your sovereignty. Amen.
 
Action Step:
Write down the name of someone or a situation you need to release to God. Spend time each day for a week praying over it, asking God to help you trust Him to handle it in His way. If you need to, fast and pray!