Psalm 58 - God is the Judge of all the Earth

LINK: Psalm 58

BACKGROUND

This psalm is called an "imprecatory (cursing) psalm" that is a cry for justice. It is harsh. Justice is a key topic in the psalm. in ancient times, judges and rulers took justice into their own hands. There was complete authority with no accountability.

David knew that when no justice could be found, he could rejoice in knowing God is the ultimate judge and the righteous will be rewarded.

REFLECTION

This psalm made me think of praying for justice in my country! Election Day in the United States is the day set by law for the general elections of public officials. It occurs on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November. This day is about a month away (if you are reading according to the BBC schedule). For those of you in the United States, it is never too early to start praying for this important day. For those of you outside the United States, it is important to pray for your election day too!  

APPLICATION

Pray for the health of your nation and the upcoming United States election! Here are some prayer points from the National Day of Prayer website:

'Throughout Scripture, we see that God answers prayer and He cares about the health of nations," NDP Vice Chairman Brian Toon said. "The 'Pray for Election Day!' campaign is an effort to remind people of faith of the importance of praying for those in leadership. We are asking people to fast and pray for the upcoming presidential election."

First, we must repent for the personal and corporate sins that grieve our Heavenly Father. 2 Chronicles 7:14 "If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."

Secondly, we must ask that God would raise up righteous leaders, who will seek His guidance and protection for our nation in the years to come. Ephesians 4:1-2 "Live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love."

Finally, we must submit to God's sovereignty, trusting in His will. Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." 

VOTE... Your vote is similar to a rock thrown into water, that sends a ripple across the lake. As Americans we are blessed to live under a representative government which allows us to choose our leaders by casting our votes. Every vote counts!

PRAYER

Lord, teach us to pray. Lead us as we pray for righteous judges and leaders in our land. We pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.