Many seek the face of a ruler, but it is from the Lord that a man gets justice. – Proverbs 29:26
Those who had the privilege of asking Jesus a question as He walked the earth would often hear an answer starting with, “As it is written.” While Jesus regularly responded from the first 5 books of the Hebrew Bible, He most often quoted from his hymnbook, Psalms. If you read Psalms, you will discover a theme addressing the cry of all distressed nations, even today — the desire for justice!
Psalms beautifully illustrates there is no worship, and no genuine faith, that neglects justice. Then, as now, vulnerable groups of people struggle to live under oppression, particularly those mentioned in this book repeatedly: widows, orphans, poor, and resident aliens. The book of Psalms highlights justice as something dispensed only from those in authority but as a key ingredient in the life of any person of faith. A just person will seek to assist the needy, strengthen the weak, and protect the vulnerable (Psalm 82). They tend to the afflicted and helpless (Psalm 10), and reject violence (Psalm 11).
Justice comes from God alone, “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne” (Psalm 89:14). His people reflect His character, “Blessed are they who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times” (Psalm 106:3). You can reflect God’s justice here on Earth! Your faith in Christ lays the foundation for righteousness and mercy to reign in your affairs and impact the culture.
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