Wednesday, January 21, 2009

God's Perspective of the Wicked

"In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, who are caught in the schemes he devises" (Psalm 10:2). We are aware that as believers, we are by action and resource to demonstrate to the weak and powerless that there is a God of love. James wrote about Religion that is "Pure and undefiled consisting of visiting the fatherless and widows and to keeping oneself unspotted from the world." This involves showing mercy and compassion to the weak and helpless. God hates violence, intimidation, or any means used by the powerful to control, manipulate, or hound those who are weak. He absolutely loathes wickedness that is based upon the strong and the mighty preying on the weak and powerless. We find in the Scriptures that the Lord will take action against such people. In God's good time He will judge all evil acts. However, God also loves sinners, no matter how they act. Jesus died for the sins of the world and His desire is that "All men should come to repentance." Here-in lies a paradox for the believer. Loving the sinner and hating the sin, takes the grace, power and wisdom of God. I remember listening to the testimony of a pastor whose ministry was rescuing teen age run away girls from the clutches of their pimps. One pimp walked up to him on the street and sneered in his face with the words "I sell flesh." He said at that point he was greatly conflicted with the love for the sinner and hate-ward for the sin concept. He said were he God, there would have been less than a gracious response to this despicable human being standing in front of him. He said that night "Hell would have gained one more resident." The above example reminds us that God is God and we are not. This evil flesh peddler should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Reality tells us that often times criminals roam free, at least for a while. God tells us there is a judgment coming for all whose reject Christ (Rev. 20:11-15). However for believers to use passionate words of judgment against evil people, will often do more harm than good. Should we speak of their evil deeds let it be when we cry out, on their behalf, to the Lord in prayer. He is the One who can change their heart and save their soul. The wicked do not seek after God, nor do they call upon His name. They live without God. The cause of this is spiritual blindness and human pride. However, we are called by God to "Love and pray for our enemies." When we pray for our enemies we are doing for them, what they cannot do for themselves, for they have no basis on which to pray. There are many stories related of abused prisoners praying for their captors. I have heard some wonderful testimonies of those abusive, vile prison guards coming to Christ. God saved a Christian killing Saul of Tarsus, He is able to save anyone who comes to Him in repentance. Is there someone in your life tormenting you? How is your prayer life being developed because of this person? Is your tormentor experiencing the love of Christ through you? Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

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