God is Just
Psalm 7:1–13
Once a year, in October, the State Fair makes its grand return about 30 miles from my home. Close to 500,000 people attended the event last year, and many look forward to it year-round.
For a small fortune, you can pay to park, eat junk food, ride rides and test your abilities in the contests. I mention the State Fair because I often remind people that life is often unfair, but if they wait until October, it will be “fair” again.
For most of us, when we think of fairness, we think of justice. Our view of justice is often colored by our perceptions, prejudices and biases. The same justice that we believe others deserve prompts us to ask for mercy when it affects us or someone we love.
God is just. He holds everyone equally accountable for their actions. While God is perfectly just, He is also merciful to those who turn to Him.
When injustice rears its head, look to God. (1–5)
While we can all agree that life does not always seem fair, hopefully we can also agree that God remains ready to help His children when we call on Him.
Unfortunately, you do not have to serve God long in this world before you are unjustly pursued, slandered or attacked by people. Some are agents of the devil, some are lost and others are evil. When those difficult times arise, look to God. When we seek God’s help, we are giving up; we are giving in to trusting God.
In this Psalm, David is not having a pity party; he is offering prayer and praise. He knows who God is and the abilities He possesses. In times of trouble, do you consider how awesome and all-powerful God is?
God alone is the righteous judge. (6–9)
In the church where I serve as pastor, there is a faithful deacon and a friend who is also a local judge. He embodies the qualities that make a good judge admirable. He is wise, patient, soft-spoken and listens more than he speaks.
As great as he is, the only perfect Judge is the Heavenly Father Himself. He has all wisdom and all power at His disposal. His judgments always indicate His holiness, and His words will always be true.
As residents of a sinful world, we can lose sight of the fact that God demands righteousness. David understood that the righteous anger of God is to be feared and appreciated.
Without repentance, judgment awaits. (10–13)
Every person who proudly and willfully refuses to repent will face the eternal judgment of God. God sends no one to Hell. Rather, Hell is the result of an unregenerated, unconverted life. God must remain true to His word and promises.
Now more than ever, I believe God is “sharpening His sword” against those who refuse to repent and trust in Him for salvation. Have you ever realized that absolutely no one has to go to Hell? The offer of salvation is for all, and the atonement that Jesus secured is sufficient for everyone.
God desires all people to repent, but He cannot violate the integrity and purity of His word. God is just and able to both bless His children and punish those who reject Him. Which will it be for you? Mercy or judgment?
EDITOR’S NOTE — The Sunday School lesson outlines are provided by Lifeway.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
