To begin with, one must first consider what exactly is meant by an “imprecatory psalm”. The term itself comes from the Latin words “imprecare” meaning “to invoke evil upon someone” (Dictionary.com). These types of Psalms typically include phrases such as “Let his days be few; let another take his office” (Psalm 109:8) or “Let them vanish like water that runs away; when they draw the bow, let their arrows be blunted” (Psalm 58:7). These verses reveal how God’s chosen people in ancient times were allowed to pray for judgment against those who opposed them or perverted justice. This was done in accordance with Jewish law which allows for capital punishment if a criminal has committed a heinous offence (Deuteronomy 19:15-21). It is also important to note that these imprecations are always seen as coming from God himself rather than from man-made authority figures such as kings or judges.

At first glance it may seem strange for modern believers to use such language given Jesus’ commandment to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44), however there is no contradiction between this teaching and praying for judgement against those who commit evil acts; indeed even Jesus prayed something similar during His time on earth when He said “Father forgive them they know not what they do” while being crucified (Luke 23:34). Furthermore, it is worth noting that while many Christians today would prefer to focus only on mercy and forgiveness in Scripture – ultimately leaving all matters of justice up to God – we must not forget one of Paul’s oft-quoted messages found Romans 12:19 – “Vengeance belongs unto me,” says the Lord.” Hence, it becomes clear that although we ought not attempt seek revenge ourselves nor judge others without proper instruction from Scripture – prayerful appeals for justice do remain valid tools within Christian faith even today despite our current emphasis on peaceable behaviour towards all men.

Finally, it could also be argued that although retaliation is discouraged throughout most parts of Scripture – imitations cannot simply overlook situations where justice needs to be served regardless whether it involves individuals or entire nations because doing so neglects an essential part of God’s character since He Himself attributes righteousness and judgement together (Isaiah 61:8). As James 2:13 says “Mercy triumphs over judgment”. Thus we see how imitating Christ necessarily includes both showing love towards those who wrong us while at same time calling out injustice wherever necessary so long as its done properly with wisdom humility accordinging Scriptural guidelines – something which can often best accomplished through praying imprecatory Psalms alongside other supplications before Almighty God Who alone knows truth about any given situation better than any single individual could ever hope too discern accurately themselves apart from His leading hand providing assistance here too..

In conclusion then , while caution certainly ought exercised before using imprecatory psalms due potential hurt feelings arising out misunderstanding intentions behind them , there remains good biblical reason why recognizing value validly invoked prayers seeking divine vindication against evildoers may serve important purpose helping bring greater balance overall understanding both grace mercy needed truly follow after Christ faithfully .

References

Dictionary.com,. ‘Definition Of Imprecare’. N.p., 2016. Web. 15 Jan 2016..
Deuteronomy 19 :15-21 .
Matthew 5 : 44 . Luke 23 : 34 Isaiah 61 : 8 < https://biblehub> James 2 : 13