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N our modern Christian minds we typically think of forgiveness OR vengeance, not forgiveness AND vengeance. Such a perspective is understandable; perhaps even commendable. Yet, we know that the forgiveness which God offers generously to us doesn't cancel justice. Our commuted sentence has been made possible by the propitiatory substitution of a Volunteer who has endured judgment for us. God has quite literally provided a way by which He can offer forgiveness and maintain vengeance at the same time. Of course, He is God, so that right and responsibility is naturally His. Vengeance is not usually our business. I say "not usually" because there are certain circumstances where governments, churches and parents must either exercise a kind of vengeance and retribution, or the promotion of evil will quickly ensue.
God reigns. He is in charge. He loves judgment, establishes equity and executes righteousness. This is who He is. It is what He does. He makes rules, declares wisdom, keeps promises and passes judgment. A divine being who did not do these things would not be the God described in the Bible. Even here in Psalm 99:6 we are reminded of 3 specific characters who experienced both mercy and revenge from the hand of God: Moses, Aaron and Samuel. He forgave each one, yet there were still consequences for their actions. David is another Bible character who famously paid for his deeds to some degree, even though God had forgiven him.
It may not always be obvious when and where such measures are appropriate, but clearly there are times when we would do well to willingly forgive perpetrators, yet at the same time require some remuneration for the damage that is done.
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