When we experience hurt or injustice at the hands of others, it can be difficult to know how to respond. We may feel angry, bitter, or helpless. But as believers, we can take comfort in knowing that God sees our pain and is actively working to bring justice and healing.
In this sermon, we will explore biblical examples of how God deals with those who hurt us.
1. God Sees and Remembers
"You have seen, O Lord; do not be silent. O Lord, do not be far from me." - Psalm 35:22
God is all-seeing and all-knowing. He witnesses every hurtful act and remembers every tear we've cried.
Example: Hagar, the Egyptian servant of Sarah, was mistreated and abused. But God saw her pain and heard her cry, and He responded with compassion and care (Genesis 16:1-13).
2. God Judges the Wicked
"Will not the judge of all the earth do right?" - Genesis 18:25
God is a just judge who will ultimately hold accountable those who have hurt us.
Example: The biblical account of Sodom and Gomorrah demonstrates God's judgment on those who persist in wickedness and harm others (Genesis 18-19).
3. God Brings Restoration
"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." - Psalm 147:3
God is a God of restoration who desires to heal our emotional and spiritual wounds.
Example: The story of Job illustrates God's power to restore what has been lost or broken. Despite Job's intense suffering, God ultimately blessed him with double what he had before (Job 42:10).
4. God Uses Our Hurts for Good
"We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." - Romans 5:3-4
God can take our hurts and use them for our good and His glory.
Example: Joseph's story is a powerful example of how God can use our hurts for good. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph forgave them and recognized that God had used his experiences to position him for greatness (Genesis 50:20).
5. God Provides Comfort and Support
"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." - Psalm 34:18
God is a present help in times of trouble, providing comfort and support to those who are hurting.
Example: After the death of her husband, Naomi was comforted by her daughter-in-law Ruth, who demonstrated loyalty and compassion. God also provided for Naomi's physical needs, demonstrating His care for her (Ruth 1-4).
6. God Executes Vengeance
"Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'" - Romans 12:19
While we are not to take revenge into our own hands, God will ultimately execute vengeance on those who have hurt us.
Example: The biblical account of Jezebel's demise illustrates God's vengeance on those who harm His people. Jezebel's cruel actions ultimately led to her own destruction (2 Kings 9:30-37).
7. God Exposes Hidden Sins
"Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account." - Hebrews 4:13
God sees all, including the hidden sins of those who have hurt us.
Example: The story of David and Bathsheba illustrates how God exposes hidden sins. David's secret sin was ultimately revealed, and he faced consequences for his actions (2 Samuel 11-12).
8. God Rewards the Faithful
"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life." - Galatians 6:7-8
God rewards those who remain faithful to Him, even in the midst of hurt and suffering.
Example: The apostle Paul's life is a testament to God's reward for the faithful. Despite facing intense persecution and suffering, Paul remained faithful to God and was ultimately rewarded with a crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
In conclusion, God is a God of justice, care, and restoration. He sees our hurts, judges the wicked, and brings restoration to those who have been harmed. As we trust in Him, we can find comfort in knowing that He is working all things together for our good.
