Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; Lovingkindness and truth go before you. Psalm 89:14 NASB
My favorite Bible is a red-letter edition. That means that the words Jesus actually spoke are in red color. The color reminds me that those particular words carry more weight. Of course, all Scripture is God-breathed and useful. Still I want to pay closer attention to those red letters because it tells me what is on Jesus’ heart.
What if the Old Testament had red letters? Wouldn’t it be helpful to see Father God’s words in red letters? What is on Father God’s heart? Justice! Justice issues are important to God!
For example, Exodus 20 – 23 is one long monologue (or teaching or statement) by Father God. It begins with THE 10 Commandments, which are really just a summary statement of the principles to be observed. The following three chapters give the specifics of how to live out those principles. It is a long list of detailed instructions of how to administer justice.
Much of the instructions about administering justice are about protecting the rights of people and animals so they are not oppressed. And about caring for the widows and the orphans. The bulk of Father God’s “speaking” is about these justice issues. Clearly, justice issues are a high priority for God!
I’m reminded that one of God’s indictments against the leaders of Israel is their oppression of the poor and needy. In Ezekiel 16:49, God sites pride, selfishness and indifference to the poor as the reasons He is judging Jerusalem. And disregard for justice is one of God’s primary complaint against the “idolatrous” nations around Israel. Yes, justice issues are important to God.
God’s heart is for the needy. He is the Father to the fatherless (Psalm 68:5). God cares for the oppressed (Psalm 103:6). God defends the afflicted and poor (Psalm 140:12). And God promises to bless those who are sensitive to the needy (Proverbs 22:9).
Yes, Justice is the foundation of His throne. Thank You, Father!!