MONDAY May 15, 2017
Great Injustices
And I became very angry when I heard their outcry and these words. - Nehemiah 5:6
The way the wealthy Jews unjustly acted towards their poor brethren made Nehemiah very angry. He was upset because of all the issues and abuse that had carried on among the people. Nehemiah knew the leaders were guilty of great injustices against the people and it created within him a godly anger. He had a righteous anger, just like Jesus’ anger against the unjust, religious leaders in Jerusalem. They had taken advantage of people buying sacrifices in the temple by raising the prices to make for themselves a nice profit. (Matthew 21:12-13).
Throughout the Scriptures we are given insight into God’s character and how He acts justly. God’s character is just. Deuteronomy 10:18 tells us: He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing. Deuteronomy 32:4 also acknowledges God is just: He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice, a God of truth and without injustice; righteous and upright is He.
Job knew God’s just character and declared: Surely God will never do wickedly, nor will the Almighty pervert justice (Job 34:12). Psalm 140:12 shows that King David had a deep understanding of God’s justice:I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and justice for the poor.
What about us? As Christians we should reflect God’s character in our actions––they should be just. Leaders are called to take care of the people who come to church. So many people come with personal problems and burdens. They have major physical, spiritual and financial situations in their lives. As they ask counsel of us we should be able to give them godly answers according to the Word of God.
He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? ~Micah 6:8
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!