Is That a Promise or a Threat

(Pro 22:23 KJV)  For the LORD will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.

As I read this verse, Hamas is again guilty of murdering Israeli women and children.  The enemies of God are attacking the people chosen by God.  That is not to say that at this day and time the people living in Israel are great examples of living righteous lives or even acknowledging the Almighty, but they are still descendants of David and Solomon who wrote this verse.  As such, I would see reason to be concerned if I were a Muslim associated with the jihad.  

The promise of God is a bit stronger than the NASB’s “take the life”.  The KJV comes closer with “spoil (6906) the “soul” (5315) [nephesh].  The NASB margin is the most literal.  It says, “rob the soul”.  I think of a Dracula moment where the monster sucks the blood out of the victim.  There are so many ways you could take this but rest assured of two things:  It is not good, it is a promise.

So?  We could spiritualize and talk about people attacking the church but just be satisfied with the knowledge that God is watching and the outcome will not be pleasant for those who try to destroy God’s people.