God Can Defeat Those Who Stir Up Trouble for His People

“About that time there arose a great disturbance about the Way. A silversmith named Demetrius, who made silver shrines of Artemis, brought in a lot of business for the craftsmen there. He called them together, along with the workers in related trades, and said: ‘You know, my friends, that we receive a good income from this business. And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that gods made by human hands are no gods at all. There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited; and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty.’ When they heard this, they were furious and began shouting: ‘Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!' Soon the whole city was in an uproar. The people seized Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul’s traveling companions from Macedonia, and all of them rushed into the theater together.” - Acts 19:23-29

Few of us have ever been attacked by a mob like Alexander in Acts 19. However, it is very likely you’ve experienced a relational conflict and have even felt attacked by those you love and trust.

Churches are often known more for strife than for service. With relationships comes conflict. None of us are immune to being hurt by others. When this hurt comes from someone who appears to be making you a target, it is especially distressing.

When we feel attacked, we want to handle the situation ourselves. If we can peaceably reconcile, we should. If we cannot, we should, however, never seek revenge. "Getting even" will take its toll on our lives. Hebrews 12:15 says, "...looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled…" An angry, bitter attitude will hurt us and negatively affect all of our relationships.

When we seek revenge or even aggressively defend ourselves at the expense of others, we demonstrate a lack of faith in God. Romans 12:19 teaches us, "Beloved, do not avenge yourselves... for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.”

God came to the rescue of the disciple in Acts 19, and He will defeat your enemies as well. God is able to defend you and will eventually make all things right. It is God’s prerogative to punish sin and it’s His pleasure to protect and defend us.