A Standard for Governance
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “So David reigned over all Israel. And David administered justice and equity to all his people.” 2 Samuel 8:15 ESV
It wasn’t easy, but David, in time and through many challenges and conflicts with surrounding nations, secured his kingdom and his rule over God’s people.
The Lord went before him and David relied on the Lord’s direction and on those that surrounded him to be loyal and faithful servants. We find in much of the early chapters of 2 Samuel, the listing of David’s victories.
One of the first goals of a national leader is to not just “secure his kingdom” from within, but to provide security to his people from outside forces. In David’s day there were many. On one occasion, even when David attempted to show kindness to the King of the Ammonites, it resulted in a conflict and battle that David did not ask for, but was willing to fight.
As the exploits of David are chronicled, one statement summarizes the character of his reign. “He administered justice and equity to all people.” When people are treated with fairness and they have confidence that which is right will prevail, it brings a sense of peace and contentment.
The words are few, but what they say are significant. All too often the idea of, “you can’t fight city hall” has become the expression of sentiment that justice and equity are not the priority of those in power. Another “bone of contention” is the idea of “playing favorites.” Is there a different outcome for people in similar types of circumstances that is dictated by “political” favoritism or some other criteria? When there is a lack of equitable treatment given by governing officials it breeds resentment and discontent among the populace.
This statement about David’s administration, is followed by a list of his key officials. It is those who serve the leader, more than the leader him or her self, that will have the biggest impact on people. If a leader is going to be known for justice and equity, those values must be lived out among and be supported by those closest to the leader.
As we move through the history of the kings of Judah and Israel, we will find that many did not rule with justice and equity. It resulted in a lack of stability, vulnerability from without and within. People who felt oppressed and with no one to “speak for them.”
What we observe in the Bible and the reign of David and subsequent kings, can be a lesson for political and organizational leaders today.
Prayer for today…. Lord, provide us leaders who will administer justice and equity for all people. You, O Lord are the One who can guide our hearts and minds with the courage and wisdom and insight that is needed for effective leadership and governance.