Fretting About Bad Guys

God has led me to read psalms 27, 37, 40, and 47 a lot in recent months, during a season when my more specific, lengthy prayers were running dry. The Lord really does work good through absolutely everything for those who love him and are called (Romans 8:28). Rereading Scripture is like a bottomless well of nourishment and encouragement, and these psalms certainly carry some common, timeless themes.

Right now, I want to highlight the opening verse of Psalm 37, as we look about our world and see evil men seemingly getting away with it. They are not. This is a season of Divine housekeeping and the Lord is neither blind nor indifferent to the suffering of his people. He promises to avenge (Romans 12:19).

It is heartbreaking and disheartening to observe or experience injustice and abuse that seems to go unpunished. We can grow weary or worry and wonder whether God will ever vindicate us, the people we care about, or the suffering around the world.

Even as Christ invites us to love our enemies and pray for those who hurt us, he also promises to make all things right and to execute judgment and justice on the Earth when He is revealed.

If you are suffering a long wait, then please read Psalm 37 in the brilliant light of the revelation of our mighty King Jesus, who will make all things right and wipe every tear.

Watch for the withering he promises we will witness and know that later in Psalm 37, he says the blameless will not wither. Believe it.

If you are wicked and have been perpetrating abuse, seize the day to turn away from your wicked ways and enjoy the immediate and eternal forgiveness of Jesus. God is exposing evil and time’s running out for you to come clean of your own initiative.

PRAYER

Your heart aches and your blood boils for the suffering of your consecrated children. Let our hearts not grow weary or bitter. Let us trust your unfailing word that justice will be done and our momentary sufferings cannot compare to the glory that awaits in the warmth of your eternal love. Thank You. I love You. 💖

DIG DEEPER:

The number 37 has powerful significance for Christians. In Hebrew thought, 37 is often associated with “the Word made complete,” and in Hebrew Gematria, 37  is connected with Jesus as Savior. And, of course, the numbers 3 and 7 carry major significance in Scripture, as representative of the Trinity and 7 as the number of completion, perfection, and fulfillment. We can summarize it this way: “the Word of God proven true through patient trust — resurrection and justice in perfect unity.” (Analysis with AI help)