Justice is one of the central themes of the Bible. God is just, and God's people are to establish a society base on justice. Judges should not pervert justice by showing partiality and accepting bribes. God's people should follow justice. Following justice means to follow God's way to make things right. Jesus is God's representation of justice; he took on himself God's justice for the sins of the world on the cross. Jesus' death satisfied God's justice.

To God's people, idol worship is spiritual adultery, breaking God's covenant. Idolatry should be purged away from them. God also gives his law for appointing a king; the king must be someone from among the fellow Israelites, divinely chosen, and appointed by the people. He must not have too many horses, wives, and wealth. He must study God's words and follow them carefully throughout his life. He must be humble. This kingship is different from worldly kingship. Many kings in Israel's history didn't follow this kingship. Jesus followed it. He was chosen by God. He obeyed God's words and was humble and peaceful. Jesus is our humble, shepherd King.


Application: Lord, help us to follow justice by living in God's way and by obeying his words. Help us listen to Jesus our King and follow his way.
One Word: God's way is just.