“To me belongeth vengeance and recompence; their foot shall slide in due time: for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste.”
Context:Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible and contains Moses’ final words to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In this chapter, Moses recites a song that serves as a witness against the Israelites, warning them about the consequences of turning away from God and worshiping idols.
Divine Vengeance:The verse begins with the declaration, “To me belongeth vengeance and recompence.” Here, God asserts His exclusive right to enact vengeance and bring retribution upon those who deserve it. It highlights God’s sovereignty and His role as the ultimate judge.
Judgment and Timing:The verse continues by stating, “their foot shall slide in due time: for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste.” This phrase suggests that while God’s judgment may not be immediate, it will surely come at the appointed time. The imagery of a slipping foot emphasizes the inevitability and suddenness of their downfall.
God’s Patience and Warning:Throughout the Old Testament, we see God’s patience with His people, giving them opportunities to repent and turn back to Him. The verse in Deuteronomy serves as a warning of the consequences of their disobedience. God’s judgment is not arbitrary but is based on His perfect justice.
Application:While this verse specifically addresses the people of Israel and their impending judgment for idolatry, it also carries broader principles for believers today. It reminds us that God is the ultimate judge, and He will hold accountable those who oppose Him and engage in wickedness. It also serves as a call to repentance, urging us to turn away from sin and align ourselves with God’s will.
- Trusting in God’s Justice:As we encounter injustice or witness wrongdoing, this verse assures us that ultimately, God will bring about justice and recompense. It encourages us to trust in God’s timing and His ability to make all things right in due course.
- New Testament Perspective:The concept of divine vengeance is further explored in the New Testament. In Romans 12:19, the apostle Paul quotes this verse, reminding believers not to take revenge but to leave room for God’s wrath. Instead, we are called to love our enemies and trust in God’s justice.
In summary, Deuteronomy 32:35 emphasizes God’s exclusive right to enact vengeance and His role as the ultimate judge. It warns the Israelites of the consequences of their disobedience and reminds us of the broader principles of God’s justice and the importance of repentance. It assures believers that God will bring about justice in His timing and encourages us to trust in Him.
