Psalm 58

Read Psalm 58

“Do you indeed decree what is right, you gods?” The Almighty One gave mankind a god-like responsibility to judge and to rule. Some were granted special positions of authority to be used for His good purposes. The Lord called such human judges “gods” in Psalm 58, yet these “gods” were not the ultimate God.

Those who used their power only to “deal out violence on the earth” would one day face the divine Defender of the poor. David knew that the Lord would not tolerate injustice forever. He understood from his own life experience what it was like to be oppressed by powerful people. He called on the Lord to “tear out the fangs” of these “lions.”

Those who had wealth and authority imagined that they answered to no one. They assumed that their god-like power would be eternal. How would they be able stand before the Almighty?

God will judge between the wicked and the righteous. The Lord who came in humility to die for our sins will come again in glory. Vengeance belongs to Him. All those who have found their safety in Christ will rejoice when they see His perfect justice. “Mankind will say, 'Surely there is a reward for the righteous; surely there is a God who judges on earth.'”

Prayer from A Book of Prayers

Righteous Lord, there are many who rule with injustice. They justify themselves and insist on their own way. They use the power they have been given for immoral purposes. Our trust is in You. The wicked will not win forever, for You are God, and You will judge.