Proverbs 20:22

Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the Lord, and he shall save thee.

Proverbs 20:22 (KJV)

Context

Proverbs is a book of wisdom literature in the Old Testament, attributed to King Solomon. It offers practical advice for living a wise and righteous life. Proverbs 20:22 addresses the issue of seeking personal vengeance and encourages trust in the Lord’s deliverance.

Meaning

The verse begins with a warning: “Say not thou, I will recompense evil.” It cautions against taking matters into one’s own hands and seeking revenge. Retaliating against those who have wronged us often leads to a cycle of violence and perpetuates hatred. It goes against the principles of forgiveness, love, and justice that God desires for His people.

The instruction to “wait on the Lord” implies trust, patience, and reliance on Him. Rather than rushing to take revenge, we are called to surrender our desire for vengeance to God and allow Him to act in His perfect timing and wisdom. Waiting on the Lord demonstrates faith in His ability to bring about justice and deliverance.

The verse concludes with the assurance, “and he shall save thee.” By refraining from seeking revenge and placing our trust in the Lord, we can expect His intervention and salvation. This salvation may come in various forms, such as protection, vindication, or inner peace. Ultimately, God is the ultimate source of deliverance and justice.

Biblical connections

This teaching aligns with the broader biblical principle that vengeance belongs to the Lord (Deuteronomy 32:35). The New Testament echoes this call to not repay evil for evil (Romans 12:17-19; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; 1 Peter 3:9).

Application

Proverbs 20:22 teaches us the importance of trusting in God’s justice rather than taking matters into our own hands. As followers of Christ, we are called to forgive others and leave room for God’s judgment (Romans 12:19). Instead of seeking revenge, we should pray for our enemies (Matthew 5:44) and strive to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). Waiting on the Lord requires faith, but it leads to a deeper understanding of His sovereignty and a greater reliance on His guidance and provision.

Reflection

Waiting on the Lord is not passive; it involves patience, faith, and continuing in one’s duty while leaving vengeance to God, to whom it belongs. This active trust frees us from the burden of retaliation and opens the way for God to act as the ultimate judge at the proper time.