8/15/25

Joshua 20:9 NASB95 — These were the appointed cities for all the sons of Israel and for the stranger who sojourns among them, that whoever kills any person unintentionally may flee there, and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood until he stands before the congregation.

One of the most difficult sins to avoid is the sin of vengeance. When someone is doing you wrong you feel the need to seek vengeance, or at least revenge.

God had already given the instructions in Deuteronomy 32:35 saying, ‘Vengeance is Mine, and retribution, In due time their foot will slip; For the day of their calamity is near, And the impending things are hastening upon them.’

Yet we struggle wanting to see justice for the person who has wronged us and we desire it while we are hurting.

We look at our scripture text today, and our thoughts go to the person who has done wrong. They may have even done wrong unintentionally. So God has a city of refuge for them so they will not be killed for their action, especially if it was an accident. This way of understanding this scripture is correct, but does the purpose go even deeper than that? Could it be that in this response God is also protecting the person seeking to find revenge or show vengeance? This person is hurt and in their hurt, they seek vengeance, which is not theirs to seek, because it is completely for the Lord. So God seems to assist them from sinning by keeping them from harming others. God doesn't just have compassion on the sinner but also on the one who was hurt. Therefore He provides protection to help them avoid the sin of vengeance.

Are you seeking to right a wrong done against you? You cannot do it by seeking revenge. Instead, pray that God will help you to respond accordingly. It is difficult, but God will set up roadblocks and gates to help keep you from sinning. Don't look for another entrance into the city of refuge. Instead thank God for the gate helping you to not sin and let the vengeance be His.

Love Bro. Scott