Throughout history, humanity has wrestled with wickedness and the allure of sinful desires. God’s anger towards the wicked, those who choose to live a life of sin and iniquity, is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. In fact, there are numerous verses that speak about it.
Psalm 7:11 specifically states that “God is a righteous judge, a God who displays his wrath every day.” This verse highlights the divine attribute of righteousness[1] in God’s character. It emphasizes that God is not indifferent to wickedness but actively displays his wrath against it. What exactly does “God is angry with the wicked everyday” mean?
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God’s Divine Judgment: Biblical Context
God is a righteous judge, yea, a God that hath indignation every day.
— Psalm 7:11 (ERV)
The concept of God judging the wicked and the sinners appears several times in the Bible. Psalm 7:11, in particular, reveals the role of God as a righteous judge. It is where David asks God to bring consequences to his enemies.
In the King James Bible, it says: “God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day.” If we don’t repent, “he will whet his sword; he hath bent his bow and made it ready.” In other translations, it is written that God is a righteous judge who “feels indignation every day” (ESV).
Psalm 7:11 serves as an enduring testament, reminding us that divine justice is not a distant abstract but a tangible reality. It serves as a warning for those who persist in wickedness. In other words, God does not endorse immoral conduct and will rightfully punish those who partake in it.
In Genesis 18:25, Abraham also posed a significant inquiry that highlights God’s commitment to justice: “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” This implies that God’s judgment is always fair and just.
Furthermore, Psalm 9:8 declares, “He [God] shall judge the world in righteousness; he shall minister judgment to the people in uprightness.” Thus, those who have done good will be rewarded while those who have done evil will be punished.
In addition to these passages, numerous biblical narratives provide ample evidence of God’s discerning judgment. For example, in Genesis 6–9, we read about how God judged humanity by sending a flood to destroy all living creatures except for Noah and his family. Similarly, in Exodus 12–14, we see how God judged Egypt by sending plagues until Pharaoh finally released Israel from slavery.
It is important to note that while God judges sinners, he also provides them with opportunities for repentance. It’s been said that God hates sin but loves the sinner.
Understanding God Is Angry With The Wicked Everyday
God’s wrath is not a sign of his cruelty or lack of love. In fact, it is because of his great love that he is angry with those who persist in sin.
Recognizing The Need For Repentance
When we understand that God is angry with the wicked every day, it should motivate us to repent and turn away from sin. We cannot continue to live in rebellion against God and expect to escape his judgment.
As 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
Sharing The Gospel With Urgency
Knowing that God is angry with the wicked every day should also give us a sense of urgency to share the gospel with non-believers. Romans 10:14–15 says, “How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?”
Living A Righteous Life
Finally, understanding God’s anger towards the wicked reminds us of the importance of living a righteous life as followers of Christ, for even God “judgeth the righteous” and he is angry with the wicked every day. While we are saved by grace through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8–9), our salvation should ultimately lead us to good works (Ephesians 2:10).
Conclusion
The Bible teaches us that God is a righteous judge who cannot tolerate sin and wickedness. Psalm 7:11 is a powerful reminder that his anger towards the wicked is not a temporary emotion but an ever-present reality.
It is important to note that God’s anger is ultimately an expression of his love for us. He desires for us to turn away from sin and experience true freedom and joy in him. As believers, we can find comfort in knowing that even when we fall short, we can always turn back to him for forgiveness and restoration through Jesus Christ.