Devotion: Psalm 7:8

Psalm 7:8 Let the Lord judge the peoples. Vindicate me, Lord , according to my righteousness, according to my integrity, O Most High.

This verse from Psalms is written by David and in it he is appealing to God as the ultimate, impartial Judge. He was being persecuted and chased by King Saul and was facing slanderous, life-threatening accusations. His response was to turn to God and boldly ask Him to assess his innocence and vindicate him.

At this point in the story, David has been falsely accused of treason. Instead of plotting revenge against his enemies, David ran to God. He saw the Lord as his “refuge,” as well as a righteous courtroom Judge who would serve justice to him and his oppressors.

In the beginning of our sentence we see David’s confidence in the Lord. He sees God as being the ruler of all nations and holding the right to judge accordingly. We see that in the wording, “The LORD shall judge the peoples.” He trusts that even when the earthly courts or kings are corrupt and unfair, God’s verdicts are perfectly fair and just.

David asks God to judge him according to his “righteousness and integrity.” This request does not mean he is claiming to be a sinless, perfect human. Instead, he is defending himself and his innocence concerning the specific lies Saul’s men were spreading about him.

But what does this mean for us and how can we apply it in our own lives? We can take hope in the God of David and His fair and just judgements. He judges the peoples and is a righteous and holy Judge. He is not corrupt like the earthly judges and He does what is right and pure. He sees our hearts and knows exactly what transpired, as well as what we need. And He doles out justice accordingly.

We can also have confidence in Him to vindicate us and take a stand for our rights. We have a God Who loves us and wants what is best for us and He will make a way. That includes both daily life as well as situations where we are accused of something negative like David was.

Trust in God, turn to Him, and let Him be the Judge. He alone is worthy to judge and He will do what is right and fair.

Prayer: Lord, Thank You for being a fair and righteous Judge. Thank You for vindicating me and making a way. Guide me in living a life for You and not for me. Amen

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