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Have you ever felt the urge to get back at someone for wronging you? The drive for revenge can be intense, but it’s dangerous. This impulse can cloud our judgment, dominate our thoughts, and fill us with bitterness. Leviticus 19:18 calls us to leave anger to God:
“You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord.”
Leviticus 19:18, English Standard Version
This verse encapsulates what we are called to do—love our neighbor as ourselves.
God loved us long before we realized we needed Him. His love extends equally to those we find difficult. God’s love can heal and ease the grip of anger on our hearts. While God is infinitely loving, He is also just. He will ensure justice is served in His timing and way. Leave anger to God; He will handle it.
Anger can be a warning sign for danger and injustice. However, if we let it fester, it becomes toxic, harming us more than anyone else. God calls us as Christians to forgive because we have experienced His immense forgiveness firsthand, yet we often slip into self-righteousness.
Our Father has forgiven us through the invaluable gift of His Son, who bore the burdens and consequences of sin. Through His Holy Spirit, Christ unites us with Himself, sharing in His death and Resurrection to a new life. Romans 12 illustrates how Scripture urges us to respond to evil with love: “Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.”
Romans 12:14 instructs us in how to leave anger to God: “Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them.” Don’t be afraid of what you find in your heart; lift it up honestly to God. Jesus fully understands the pain inflicted by others. Grieve openly and pray for the Holy Spirit to cleanse you of anger and fear. Feel His comforting embrace restoring your wholeness.
Lord, thank You that new life is possible through You, that deserts can become pools of water. Thank You that no one can force fear, anger, or hate to live on in us. Help us each day to know more deeply that Your love really is stronger than anything anyone can do to us. Show us what it means to walk in true love and freedom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Listen now to the short version of this Abide meditation, “Leave Anger to God,” based on Leviticus 19:18. Let God speak to your heart about letting Him bring true justice.
Let Abide be your daily companion as you learn to leave anger to God. Our more than 1500 biblical meditations all exist to help you grow closer to God and follow His ways instead of your own. Download the app and start a premium subscription. This will give you access to our entire library of content. Use this link for 25% off.
