Psalm 75-76

“God says, ‘At the time I have planned, I will bring justice against the wicked.’” (Psalm 75:2, NLT)

The Bible tells us that God is sovereign in the affairs of men (Daniel 4:17). In Psalm 75, Asaph writes that God puts down one and exalts another (v. 7). Ultimately, He will pour out His wrath on all the ungodliness and unrighteousness of men (Romans 1:18). In one sense, this knowledge ought to bring us comfort and peace, because we know that He will judge the wicked and expose every hidden thing.

But God is also patient, not wanting anyone to perish but all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). He considers judgment to be His “strange work” (Isaiah 28:21). Therefore, God can take a long, long time to do it. Are we able to wait upon Him? Are we able to trust Him to handle the situations that trouble us? Or do we feel compelled to do something ourselves?

There are times when God would have us do something. This requires discernment. When do we wait? When do we act? I find that the more time I spend praying about situations, the more peace I have, and the better insight I have on when and how to act…if at all.

I find the instructions that Moses gave to judges to be quite helpful:

“You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small as well as the great; you shall not be afraid in any man’s presence, for the judgment is God’s. The case that is too hard for you, bring to me, and I will hear it.” (Deuteronomy 1:17, NKJV)

Knowing that all judgment belongs to God helps me to wait in confidence upon Him and act as He gives me grace, wisdom and authority to do so. When we come to cases that are too difficult for us, we can always go to the Lord who tells us to cast all our cares on Him because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).

What about you? Are you weary of waiting for the Lord to act? Be patient and do good. He will at last work it out. Be faithful and not fearful. If He calls you to do something, then He will help you and make you more like Jesus in the process.