[Darris McNeely] In the wake of the not guilty verdict in the Trayvon Martin murder trial, it has been surprising to see the reaction. Well, perhaps not as surprising as it may seem. But from celebrities, from politicians, the comments that have been made, the people that are in the streets, the outrage that has been expressed. It's an ongoing story. Obviously this case has legs. It's going to go for quite some time.

As I've listened and read and watched what has been taking place in the aftermath of a legitimate trial by jury as a part of our judicial system, it has been surprising to hear the many calls that have been made for vengeance as if justice was not done. There's a danger here and we don't want to see a breakdown in our system, in our society, and certainly in the way these matters are handled in a civilized society.

In looking at all of this a scripture came to mind in Romans 12:19 that I think helps us to understand and put into context this matter of justice and especially vengeance. It's not right for anyone to take that vengeance in their own hands apart from an established order and system of law and justice. And I think Paul was writing to this when he said in Romans 12:19, he said, "Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath." Give place to anger. Don't let anger overcome and dictate and drive one to vengeance.

He says, "Give place to wrath for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine. I will repay'" says the Lord." God says that it is His duty to take vengeance. It's not ours. And when we have a civilization set up as we do in the United States of America trial by jury, due process, it's important that we let that take its course and abide by the decisions. Matters have a way of taking care of themselves. To take it into our own hands is not the right way. Let God handle ultimate justice. Let God be true. Let God's word be true, and not take these matters into our own hands. And may cooler heads prevail as the story unfolds.

That's BT Daily. Join us next time.