“Shall Not God Avenge His Own?”
105
The character of the judge in the parable, who feared not God nor
regarded man, was presented by Christ to show the kind of judgment
that was then being executed, and that would soon be witnessed at His
trial. He desires His people in all time to realize how little dependence
can be placed on earthly rulers or judges in the day of adversity. Often
the elect people of God have to stand before men in official positions
who do not make the word of God their guide and counselor, but who
follow their own unconsecrated, undisciplined impulses.
In the parable of the unjust judge, Christ has shown what we should
do. “Shall not God avenge His own elect, which cry day and night
unto Him?” Christ, our example, did nothing to vindicate or deliver
Himself. He committed His case to God. So His followers are not to
accuse or condemn, or to resort to force in order to deliver themselves.
When trials arise that seem unexplainable, we should not allow
our peace to be spoiled. However unjustly we may be treated, let not
passion arise. By indulging a spirit of retaliation we injure ourselves.
[172]
We destroy our own confidence in God, and grieve the Holy Spirit.
There is by our side a witness, a heavenly messenger, who will lift
up for us a standard against the enemy. He will shut us in with the
bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. Beyond this Satan cannot
penetrate. He cannot pass this shield of holy light.
While the world is progressing in wickedness, none of us need
flatter ourselves that we shall have no difficulties. But it is these very
difficulties that bring us into the audience chamber of the Most High.
We may seek counsel of One who is infinite in wisdom.
The Lord says, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble.”
Psalm 50:15
.
He invites us to present to Him our perplexities and necessities, and
our need of divine help. He bids us be instant in prayer. As soon as
difficulties arise, we are to offer to Him our sincere, earnest petitions.
By our importunate prayers we give evidence of our strong confidence
in God. The sense of our need leads us to pray earnestly, and our
heavenly Father is moved by our supplications.
Often those who suffer reproach or persecution for their faith are
tempted to think themselves forsaken by God. In the eyes of men they
are in the minority. To all appearance their enemies triumph over them.
But let them not violate their conscience. He who has suffered in their
behalf, and has borne their sorrows and afflictions, has not forsaken
them.