August 15th 2018 – Proverbs 20: 22

Do not say, “I will repay evil”;
    wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you

Proverbs 20:22

Here is a worthy and challenging comment on this verse from Ironside’s commentary: 'No lesson is harder for some of us to learn than that of confiding all our affairs to the hands of the Lord, especially when we feel we have been wronged and ill-treated. Yet it is plain from Scripture that the saint can make no greater mistake than to take charge of his own affairs in such a case. Nothing could be clearer than the injunction 'Recompense to no man evil for evil….' (Romans 12:17ff). To set about meting out evil for evil in the face of words like these is to act in direct disobedience to God, and we need not wonder if we make a terrible botch of it all. He who, owning that all has been allowed by the Lord for his good, bows his head and bends before the blast, will find God ever ready to interfere at the needed moment. To look away from the human instrument of our grief, however vindictive he may be, and to see, behind it all, the purposes of our Father working out, gives rest and comfort to the sorely-tried soul. It was this that sustained David when Shimei cursed and stoned him (2 Samuel 16:5-12). It is doubtful if, in all David's spiritual history, he ever reached a higher height of holy confidence in God than at this time of deep, deep trial. Shimei's spiteful cursing in so public a manner, and at so sorrowful a time, must have deeply lacerated his already wounded spirit. But he bows his head in submission; and instead of executing vengeance on Shimei, and seeking self-vindication from the charges made, 'though evil report and good report' he holds on his way, in submissive confidence, saying, 'Let him curse', and taking all from the Lord Himself. Shimei was but an instrument, inspired by Satan, yet really permitted of the Lord, for David's chastening and discipline. As such he views him, and looks not at second causes, but at the great First Cause Himself. This is most blessed. Would that every tried saint could follow his example!'