https://www.facebook.com/groups/muchgrace/

(Romans 12:19) Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for God’s wrath [and His judicial righteousness]; for it is written [Deu. 32:35], “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.”

Since moving to an area of Italy where we’re still an hour away from family (and, by definition, their knowledgeable assistance), we’ve been forced to procure the services of many workers who were unknown to us and, as such, unverified.

Some have been pretty good, whereas quite a few have had the morals of a vacuum cleaner! As such, the above Scripture and “thou shalt not kill” have been fighting each other for prominence in my mind over our eight months here.

I constantly remind myself that when God says vengeance is His, it means He WILL handle it! Somehow, the words of Romans 8:28 break through and soften our hardening hearts: "And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose."

So, we receive His confidence that He will ensure that justice is served (by Himself if needs be), repaying for the wrongs that have been done to you.

FYI - I’ve experienced this incredible Grace many times over my life and still cringe in awe of it. My ‘problem,’ however, is that my flesh wants to immediately see “fire fall down from heaven” – not grant mercy to a particularly resourceful thief.

Hmmm ... "I wonder what Jesus would do in my situation … ?" (Luke 23:39) “One of the criminals who had been hanged [on a cross beside Him] kept hurling abuse at Him, saying, “Are You not the Christ? Save Yourself and us [from death]!” But the other one rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? We are suffering justly, because we are getting what we deserve for what we have done; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” And he was saying, “Jesus, [please] remember me when You come into Your kingdom!” Jesus said to him, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”

Holy Spirit, please touch the heart of whoever is reading this. Draw them into Your presence and show them that You continue to speak and answer prayers today. Amen. 

Heavenly Father, giver of life and health: Comfort and relieve those who are sick amongst us—such as Barbara and Ian fighting cancer. We also pray for a quick and complete healing for Keiron, Jay and Liliana. Please grant your healing power to those who minister to all the sick among us so they may be strengthened in their weakness and have confidence in your loving care. We pray this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.