Session 21

Revenge isn’t as sweet as you think it will be

From Exodus: A 34-Day Devotional

You got dumped. Your grandma died. Your dog got run over. You are a walking country music song, and someone better pay. Revenge: you don’t care if it’s served cold so long as it’s served. You want someone to suffer for the hurt you’ve suffered. But then you remember the good news: Jesus Christ suffered and died and paid it all so that no one else has to.

Imagine a world where you’re responsible for handing out the punishment you felt was deserved for every wrong ever done to you. Would you be fair in the moment? Would you be blinded by circumstances and lash out in anger?

Knowing the answer, God created a code of laws for the Israelites to live by to ensure justice in day-to-day disputes that might arise. The “eye for an eye” idea of revenge is something we’ve often heard as a distorted interpretation of God’s law (Exodus 21:23-25). This was intended to ensure people didn’t brutally retaliate against one another, but instead trust God there would be consequences for anyone acting in a way that hurt or diminished the rights of His people.

In our culture, we’re always looking for someone to pay. Just remember next time you harbor that feeling in your heart, someone already did pay. Jesus suffered and died for all of our sins so we may focus on forgiving and loving rather than avenging.

Reflect:

• Am I more focused on getting even with someone than forgiving them?
• If you are struggling with forgiveness, we would love to talk with you. Connect with someone on your campus here.