Centralized Power You Need and Can Trust
I think I’m adjusting to spring and the coming summer months. I feel behind on some of my outside work. Today, I was able to get outside and do some work besides mowing the lawn. Still have a lot to do, but am beginning to make progress. I think we will turn on our sprinkler system and uncover our patio furniture by Memorial Day!
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “For the Lord is our Judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our King. He will save us.” Isaiah 33:22 HCSB
In the realm of human government there are three distinct arenas: those who make laws, those who administer laws and those who made judgments based on the law. In our system of government we refer those as the legislative, executive and judicial “branches” of government.
When the United States was founded, it was based on a “separation of powers.” That is why we have three branches of government. Every country has those functions, but they may not be represented by various “branches” of government. Our founders knew that human government is imperfect. As a result, to have a stable government that does not “over step” it bounds and becomes too ruthless due to the power it holds, our founders endeavored to “spread” the power around.
That is a good idea for “human” government. But we see in Isaiah as the Lord exerts His rule and authority, we find comfort and assurance in a God who is lawgiver, King and Judge. What doesn’t work for fallen man, is found in perfect balance in God’s rule as a King of justice and mercy.
The Lord is the perfect Lawgiver, establishing perfect laws. We see King David declares, “The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.“ (Psalm 19:7 NIV) God’s “law” is for our good. It is to guide our life and to keep us from harm.
In His role as judge, we see, “…the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.“ (Psalm 19:9 KJV) Jesus chided the religious leaders of His day, “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.” (John 7:24 ESV) Righteous judgment goes to the heart of the matter. It is not influenced by bribery, human frailties nor does it look just on the surface, but it goes to the heart of the issue. That is why James declared, “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.“ (James 2:10 NIV)
In the Lord’s role as King we can be confident of One who is our protector and friend. He is not concerned about Himself and His power. He is secure and makes us secure as a result. Our King is conqueror and the one who ensures our peace and prosperity. We read in Revelation of the coming Christ, “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: king of kings and lord of lords.“ (Revelation 19:16 NIV) We read in Proverbs, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice…” (Proverbs 29:2 KJV)
When the perfect “One” comes, He brings salvation and rejoicing. That is why we see the throngs of people welcoming Jesus into Jerusalem with shouts of “Hosanna to the Son of David” or “Lord, save us.”
Prayer for today… “Lord, thank you for being the perfect lawgiver, King and Judge. I rejoice in You! You are the One I seek and need to govern my life and to direct me into the destiny that you have for all those who love You. When you reign I have peace and all my needs are met. Allow my heart today to experience the fullness of all that you are and bring to my life.”