Revulsion, malice, and the desire for retribution can weigh heavily on the human spirit. Often, the urge to avenge wrongs can cloud judgment and lead to a cycle of animosity. However, the Bible offers profound insight into the nature of revenge and the importance of forgiveness. Here are 10 quotes that illuminate the path toward peace rather than continued conflict.
1. Romans 12:19
“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
2. Proverbs 20:22
“Do not say, ‘I’ll pay you back for this wrong!’ Wait for the Lord, and he will avenge you.”
3. Matthew 5:39
“But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
4. 1 Peter 3:9
“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
5. Leviticus 19:18
“Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.”
6. Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
7. Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
8. 2 Thessalonians 1:6
“God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you.”
9. Psalm 103:10
“He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.”
10. Deuteronomy 32:35
“It is mine to avenge; I will repay in due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near and their doom rushes upon them.”
In moments when vengeance seems appealing, these passages remind us that true strength lies in mercy. By practicing forgiveness and entrusting our grievances to a higher power, we can liberate ourselves from the shackles of revenge and embrace a more profound sense of inner peace.
