PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Psalm 58
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Do you rulers indeed speak justly? Do you judge people with equity?” (Psalm 58:1)
Are you one of those that loves to criticize the government?
Its not hard to do, our politicians give us lots to be critical of.
In this Psalm David is challenging the corruption of rulers and judges.
But he is a ruler too, and must also answer these questions for himself.
Do I speak justly, do I judge others (my criticisms) with equity?
Being critical of others is a form of judgment… but who am I to judge?
It is true that leaders will be held accountable for their actions.
But so will everyone else, including you and me.
“In the same way you judge others, you will be judged.” (Matthew 7:2)
Be very careful about how you criticize others, including politicians and leaders.
“Surely there is a God who judges the earth…” (Psalm 58:11), and its not us.
As a Jesus follower, I should be deeply aware of my own flaws, failures and follies.
As a Jesus follower, I should see that politicians need grace just as much as I do!
As a Jesus follower, I should show the same grace to others God has shown to me!
PRAYER
Lord, when I start critiquing others, including leaders, remind me that I have my own issues to deal with.
Lord when I am indignant at the latest headline and when I cannot hold back my tongue – help me stay bridled and calm. Help me not betray myself as the same as those I fault, help me live loudly as salt and light and keep my mouth shut.
Help me not to hate but still break my heart for what breaks yours – thank you for your constant guidance in scripture.
“surely there is a God who judges the earth” – my judgement and the judgement of my leaders is easily de-railed and subjective to my thoughts, whims, desires, emotions etc. That is why the last line in the Psalm are a comforting reminder – that it is God who is the ultimate Judge! I do need to submit my will to His – and control my own ego and desires. I need help – and Jesus gave us that – his gift of the Spirit! Still there are times I don’t listen – but not too long – I learn the error of my ways! Thank you Jesus
The gods mentioned here are the lords who lord it over the people and they did it crookedly. The prayer is that their ability to hurt others be removed – their abuse of power. God is the Ruler yet and He has promised that He is the Lord. In the meantime, I need to pray for all those in authority that they may be lead and guided by His Spirit. Only my Lord can make all things right.
O Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Be Thou forever near me,
My Master and my Friend;
I shall not fear the battle
If Thou art by my side,
Nor wander from the pathway
If Thou wilt be my Guide.