A lot of people wonder about Judgment Day. They’re curious about how and when it will happen. And trust me: there is no end of books that jump on the profitable bandwagon of speculation.

But there’s a much-neglected facet to Judgement Day that can positively impact our attitudes in the here and now, regardless of when it will all happen.

2 Timothy 4:1 says that Jesus “will judge the living and the dead…” Maybe it’s obvious, but one of the things this means for you and me is that HE is the judge… not us.

Because of this, we don’t have to resort to revenge. Why? Because one day HE will be the one to settle all the scores (not us).

It liberates us from an unhealthy desire for retribution which can pollute our souls.

This outlook can radically change our outlook and make us more loving. For example, just look at Jesus’ time on earth: In Matthew 5:39 he says, “If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” And in Matthew 5:44, “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…”

Wow!

People who do evil will not get away with it—even if they sometimes seem to. God is not mocked. He sees all. Judgment will come down upon all evil.

And because of that liberating fact, you and I can focus on being the hands and feet of Christ, sharing his love and truth with a hurting world.

By Matthew Ruttan

–This Sunday I continue with Part 2 in the “Help When It Hurts” series. Click here to see a 41-second YouTube video about the series. If you missed Part 1, click here to listen.
–“Up!” is published 5 days a week (Monday-Friday) and resumes on June 17.
–Bible quotes are from the NIV.