Jehovah-Naheh – Lord who Smites

My eye will show no pity, and I will not let you go without punishment. I will make you pay for your ways, and for the hated sins that are among you. Then you will know that it is I, the Lord, Who punishes you. Ezekiel 7:9 (NLV)

Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? Did I keep myself innocent for no reason?

 O Lord, the God Who punishes, let Your Light shine! Truly You are good to those whose hearts are pure. But as for me, I almost lost my footing. My feet were slipping and I was almost gone. For I envied the proud when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness. So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper. They seemed to live such painless lives; their bodies were so healthy and strong. They didn’t have troubles like other people; they weren’t plagued with problems like everyone else. These fat cats had everything their hearts could ever wish for! They boasted against the very heavens, and their words strutted throughout the earth. Look at these wicked people— enjoying a life of ease while their riches multiplied.

Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? Did I keep myself innocent for no reason?

I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain. So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper. Then I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked. Then I realized that my heart was bitter and I was all torn up inside. I was so foolish and ignorant—yet even today, I still belong to You; You hold my right hand. You guide me with Your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. My health may fail and my spirit may grow weak, but You remain the strength of my heart; You are mine forever. How good it is to be near You! I have made You my shelter and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things You do.

O Lord, I am a sheep of Your pasture, I will thank You forever and ever, praising Your greatness from generation to generation. Help me, O God of my salvation! Help me for the glory of Your name. Save me and forgive my sins for the honor of Your name. Demonstrate Your great power by saving those condemned to die. And I will not hide these truths from my children; I will tell the next generation about Your glorious deeds, Your power and Your mighty wonders.