3Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.
4Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.
- P140
8Rise up, O God, judge the earth, for all the nations are your inheritance. - P141
The psalmist depicts God judging the "gods". He rebukes them for theirinjustice and for favoring the wicked over the weak and needy. Though theyare "gods," they will die like mere mortals. The psalm ends with a plea for Godto rise and judge the earth, as all the nations are His. - P141
God presides over a great assembly. He is furious with the leaders who see themselves as gods. They should care for the poor, oppressed, and fatherless, but they instead face judgment for defending the unjust and showing favoritism to the wicked. They have done nothing for the needy and socially vulnerable. - P142
We see in this psalm that God cares for all people, especially those who need Him most. Likewise, we are expected to act justly and compassionately in the society where we have been placed. - P142
Whether we are leaders or members of the community, let us shine the light of Christ in our dark world with sacrificial love and biblical justice. - P142
The psalmist continues to use the imagery of God speaking to the "gods?
The community leaders may see themselves as invincible in power and-authority, but their failure to faithfully oversee God‘s people demonstratestheir weakness. They will fall from their place of power, just like every otherruler, and they will die like every other mortal. - P142
When we have opportunitiesto take up leadership in our families, churches, or communities, we bear agreat responsibility to fulfill our duties well. One day, we will face God andbe held responsible for how we acted. - P142
Let us, therefore, exercise authorityappropriately in every role we undertake, not seeing ourselves as gods butrecognizing the importance of our responsibilities under the omnipresentand omnipotent God. - P142
Dear Lord, our world is filled with injustice, oppression, and deception. When I am faced with various injustices, give me courage to affirm and proclaim Your ways. - P142
May I reflect the character and message of Christ, leading well instead of being indecisive or lazy. In Jesus’ name, amen. - P142
God converses with us primarily through His words in Scripture.
We can also use His words to respond to Him.
Use the following guide to pray through this week‘s memory verse.
"Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the op-pressed." - Psalm 82:3 - P143
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