Romans 12:19-21 NKJV

[19] Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. [20] Therefore “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” [21] Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

I have experienced some moments in recent history that compelled me to retaliate. I thought about how I would respond, what I would say, and how I would approach it. I romanticized how good it would feel to put someone in their place and right my perceived wrongs... all of this regarding the way my son had been treated by an adult.

James 1:19 - So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20. for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.

I can't maintain ANY level of holiness or godliness while planning retaliation. I am too passionate and too emotional. My words would not glorify God because my heart is set on vengeance. I have to trust that God will make all things right in His time and suppress the urge to speak out of turn. I can't appeal to my flesh and reflect Jesus at the same time.