From Wind to Whirlwind

Seeking revenge is comparable to sowing the wind only to reap the whirlwind. A Filipino proverb argues, “They who sow the wind will reap the typhoon”. The compulsion to get revenge may not take into consideration the possibility of a backlash, as in sudden acts of violence being hurled back in a tit-for-tat show of strength.

 

When the sons of Jacob reacted to the rape of their sister by murdering everyone they deemed responsible, they never considered the effect it would have on their father. Jacob was overcome by fear and fled the country because he expected retaliation. He knew revenge does not remain un-revenged.

When we've been hurt, God intends for us to act with mercy. God wants us to trust him to act appropriately, which means he will do what is just, but with mercy. Sir Thomas Elliott warned that if mercy is missing in us, all other virtues will be stifled. Think about that for a minute. Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy.”
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But you, O Lord, are a merciful and loving God, always patient, always kind and faithful. Turn to me and have mercy on me; strengthen me and save me...
~PSALM 86:15-16 Good News Bible

Revenge Is Evil ~ God's Way Is Best

Getting through life without being hurt is impossible. It happens when someone we trust acts out in ways to hurt our feelings. Even if unintentional, the damage to trust can be long-lasting. Two initial responses to being hurt are to pretend everything is fine or to punish the offender by seeking revenge.

Jacob’s sons took the revenge approach when a man from their neighborhood raped their sister Dinah. They plotted to annihilate anyone remotely responsible for this crime. Revenge includes a calculating mindset encased in hatred or rage with little consideration of repercussions, including how others who were not involved would be affected.

          Whether we internalize pain or plan revenge, neither will dissolve the hurt we feel. God is not pleased with revenge as payment for hurtful behavior. Although God does not respond on our time schedule, he ultimately brings justice in his time and in his way. God’s desire is for us to trust him to do what is right and beneficial.
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Don't take revenge, dear friends, but let God punish, because the Bible says, "I alone have the right to avenge. I will pay back," says the Lord. 
~ROMANS 12:19 Beck - New Testament in the Language of Today