Where is the God of Judgment? • Deshen Daily

Ye have wearied the LORD with your words. Yet ye say, Wherein have we wearied him? When ye say, Everyone that doeth evil is good in the sight of the LORD, And he delighteth in them; Or, Where is the God of judgment? (Malachi 2:17, KJV)

Across the ages, God’s people have often been perplexed by a recurring phenomenon: God’s delayed judgment on sinners. This problem seems to intensify in our era of grace. In Prophet Malachi’s time, they asked, “Where is the God of judgment?” Let’s delve into what this inquiry entails and its relevance today.

During Malachi’s era, the populace arrived at a hazardous conclusion, proclaiming, “Everyone that doeth evil is good in the sight of the LORD, And he delighteth in them.” This grievous misinterpretation arose from the absence of immediate divine retribution. In the Old Testament, God often postponed judgment, allowing ample time for repentance.

However, the narrative shifts alarmingly in the grace epoch, where God’s leniency can be misinterpreted and misused to validate sinful conduct. As Paul articulated God’s love and forgiveness, some twisted his doctrine,

“And why not do evil that good may come?—as some people slanderously charge us with saying. Their condemnation is just.” (Romans 3:8, ESV)

Mirroring Malachi’s era, they posited that God would “pamper” individuals despite their sinful choices. Such a narrative is dangerous. When pastors or preachers misrepresent God’s Word, comforting sinners in their wrongful paths, they “strengthen the hands of evildoers,” reminiscent of the false prophets in Jeremiah’s time,

“But in the prophets of Jerusalem, I have seen a horrible thing: they commit adultery and walk in lies; they strengthen the hands of evildoers so that no one turns from his evil.” (Jeremiah 23:14, ESV)

So, where is the God of judgment? He is still on His throne, alive and omnipotent. Through His grace, He has generously provided for our redemption. He does not revel in judgment but in dispensing mercy, yearning for individuals to forsake sin and walk with Him. The times are perilous, with odd occurrences even within church sanctuaries. Amid celebrating His boundless grace, nurture a wholesome fear of the Lord in your heart.

Meditate

Why don’t we witness divine retribution in church gatherings as with Ananias and Sapphira or the stern warnings to high priests entering the Holy of Holies?

Apply the Word

Never envy sinners or evildoers(Proverbs 24:19). The God of judgment is ever-present, yet His grace and mercy abound towards humanity. Cherish and be grateful for this grace.