Topic: Do not turn justice to gall

Bible Reading: Amos 6:1-12

Introduction

Justice is just behavior and good treatment. It is fairness and equity for all the parties involved. It can also be described as impartiality and fair play. Justice is objectivity and neutrality in any case presented before the ruler or the judge. It can also be described as honesty, righteousness and morality. Finally, Justice must be free of politics or personal interest and it must be for all.

Nowadays it has been turned to an insolent or impertinent behavior. It is rampant in the world for justice to be turn to impudent behavior. It is a common occurrence for justice to be used as a means of rudeness and disrespectful behavior by not showing due respect for others.

The justice systems had decayed and broken down throughout the world to the extent that human rights had been relegated to the background. Oppression is widespread through the draconian laws enacted by the nations. Many of these afflictive laws favour the rich or the ruling class whereby the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer.

It is time for human to realize that the reasons why God created this world were neither for injustice nor subversion of justice. We need to know that the Lord our God is the King of kings and Judge of all judges. God will revisit or retry any case that fails to produce justice for the parties involved. For this reason, the judges must know that they are not judging for humans, but for God who put them in that position.

Do not be surprised if the poor and the needy of your country are abused, and injustice takes the place of justice because it is prevalent in the world. Afterall, the lower officials must do what the higher ones ordered them to do. The oppression of the poor and the denial of justice is happening at an alarming rate in the world. Perversion of justice and violation of what is just and right is occurring on daily basis without check because of the greed and lust for power of the ruling class. The cries of oppression are widespread throughout the world because of injustice. The powerful are subverting justice based on their political ambitions and selfish interest Ecclesiastes 5:8.

The Bible stated that the population of the earth was corrupt and absolutely depraved; people are spiritually and morally putrid in the sight of the Lord and the nations were filled with violence such as injustice, desecration, infringement, outrage, assault and lust for wealth or power. God looked upon the world and saw how degenerate, debased and vicious it was, for all humanity had corrupted their way upon the earth and lost their true direction Genesis 6:11-12. God observed that everyone was terribly cruel and violent; inasmuch as people lie and cheat, and they are unfaithful to God; they have disgraced themselves and they are no longer worthy to be His children Deuteronomy 32:5. Even the believers have corrupted themselves by learning the way and the customs of the Gentiles, so they are not worthy to be called the children or inheritance of God Jeremiah 10:2.

It is time for everyone to know that the vineyard of God is the world and the believers are His pleasant plant. Almighty God expected a crop of justice, but instead He found oppression, lawlessness and bloodshed; He expected to find righteousness but instead He heard the cries of violence and distress Isaiah 5:7. If you are among His plant of delight, do not disappoint the Lord but be honest and never turn justice to gall according to the song which says “God has a vineyard, it is the world (2ce). He planted seeds in it, we mankind who are the inhabitants of the earth. But when it is harvest time, He could only get little. Many of the crops had been eaten by animals and several crops had decayed so He only got little.”

God never subvert judgment: Our God is a just God and there is no injustice or unrighteousness in Him. As it is written “Does God subvert judgment? Or does the Almighty pervert justice?” The answer is no, God will never stand in the way of justice. He neither twist justice like humans nor fail to do what is right at all times Job 8:3. God will never be partial or treat people unfairly because He is not son of man. Everyday humans twist the words of the Lord to suit their selfish ambitions and their thoughts are against His commands Psalm 56:5.

Believers, do not twist the words of the Lord to pervert justice since God does not condone injustice according to the scripture which says “For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book” Revelation 22:18-19. Pastor, heed the warning, do not add or remove from the words of the Lord because of your ambitions. Priests, do not mislead the ruling class by twisting the word of the Lord, because of personal gain. Remember your oath of office, therefore, do not misapply justice because of profit and riches Deuteronomy 4:2. For this reason, do not depend on humans to get justice, only God can give justice. As it is written “Many seek the ruler’s favour, but justice for man comes from the Lord” Proverbs 29:26. Never rely on anyone to get justice because what is right and fair comes from God alone.

Nations have degenerated: Many faithful nations have become despicable, once they were full of justice, uprightness, and right standing with God, but now ruthless people dwell in them. The judges of several notable nations used to be honest and their citizens lived right, but now they are nations full of devious people. Numerous countries that are once the pride and home of justice and righteousness have now become home of murderers and injustice Isaiah 1:21. For this reason, the law is ineffective and ignored, to the extent that justice is never upheld; for the wicked surround the righteous; therefore, justice becomes perverted. The laws cannot be enforced, justice is always the loser; criminals crowd out the honest people and twist the laws around. In such nations, the law has become paralyzed, and there is no justice in their courts. The wicked far outnumber the righteous to the extent that justice has become perverted. When evil people get the better of the righteous or fence in the righteous, the law will become weak and useless, then justice will never be done Habakkuk 1:4. “Therefore justice is far from us, nor does righteousness overtake us; we look for light, but there is darkness! For brightness, but we walk in blackness! We grope for the wall like the blind, and we grope as if we had no eyes; we stumble at noonday as at twilight; we are as dead men in desolate places. We all growl like bears, and moan sadly like doves; we look for justice, but there is none; For salvation, but it is far from us.” Isaiah 59:9-11.

Though people pray to be rescued from their torment, but get no response and screaming for help bring no justice according to the Bible passage which says “If I cry out concerning wrong, I am not heard. If I cry aloud, there is no justice.” Job 19:7. For this reason, rulers must not get drunk or have a craving for alcohol. Leaders must not misbehave but be sober at all times so that they will not forget the law, misapply the decree and pervert the justice of all the afflicted. People in position of authority must be clearheaded/level headed so that they will neither ignore the rights of people in need nor violate the rights of the helpless. They must not forget to give justice to the oppressed and they must never mistreat the poor Proverbs 31:4-5.

A plea for justice: How long will people keep judging unfairly and favouring evil people? How long will the rulers and the people in position of authority hand down unjust decisions by favouring the wicked? How long will the judges/magistrates judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? Henceforth, they must stop judging unjustly and they must no longer be partial to the wicked but they must be fair to the poor and the orphans. They must defend the helpless and everyone in need as required by the Lord. They must uphold the rights of the oppressed and the needy. They must give justice to the poor and be fair to the helpless. It is their duty to rescue the poor and the needy for the powerful hands of the heartless people. They must not fail to deliver the poor from the grasp of the evil people and save the helpless from the power of the wicked Psalm 82:2-4. It is important to pray to God to teach our leaders to judge with righteousness and share with them His justice. We need to pray to God to give our rulers His love of justice, and righteousness to the ruling class to govern justly. It is then that they will rule with honesty and fairness, and govern the poor and the afflicted with justice. Prayer alone can make our leaders to rule over their people/citizens with justice, govern the oppressed with righteousness and treat the poor fairly Psalm 72:1-2.

Now is the time for everyone to learn to live right and see that justice is done. It is our duty to learn to do what is good, pursue justice and rebuke the ruthless. We must help the oppressed; defend the rights of the orphans and plead for the widow Isaiah 1:17. Earthlings, let us choose justice for ourselves; let us know among ourselves what is good. We need to discern for ourselves what is right and learn what is good so that we will not stray from the righteous path Job 34:4. We need to be considerate and always do what is right. We must walk in the way of righteousness; we must walk in moral and spiritual rectitude in every aspect of our lives and relations, and follow the paths of justice without backsliding Proverbs 8:20. At this point everybody must put on kindness and justice as our garments in order to eradicate injustice in our midst. We must clothe ourselves with righteousness and justice so that we will never turn justice to gall again Job 29: 14.

Inhabitants of the earth, hear the word of God today: Always act justly and fairly in all your relations or dealings. The only antidote for injustice is to be honest in whatever we do, and make righteousness and justice our watchword.

Do not blame God for injustice

You must never blame God for perversion of justice because our God a is just God and there is no injustice in Him. Since God does not condone injustice, whoever that is blaming God because people had turned justice to gall, lacks knowledge.

Our God is blameless concerning this issue according to the scripture which says “Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was good. So the evening and the morning were the sixth day” Genesis 1:31. Everything created by God were supremely good, suitable for the purpose they were created and pleasant. The Bible verified that God made people upright and uncorrupted, but we have sought out many devices for evil. God made humans beings just and straightforward, but we search for many complications due to our greed and covetousness. We were completely honest when God created us, but now we have twisted minds. It is evident that God made mankind honest and decent but we have pursued many designs and found many sinful schemes which made us to be bad Ecclesiastes 7:29. Since God created us to be virtuous, but we have each turned to follow our own destructive and downward path; For this reason, we must neither give excuse nor blame God for injustice that is widespread on earth. Henceforth, we must be held accountable for our actions and be responsible for our deeds.

The reason why God is tolerating our unjust behaviors is because God does not like to see the wicked people die, but what He wants is for them to turn from their evil ways and live. As it is written “‘Do I have any pleasure at all that the wicked should die?’ says the Lord And not that he should turn from his ways and live?’” Ezekiel 18:23. Since God does not enjoy seeing evil people die, but He would rather see them repent, turn to Him and live.

Now is the time for you to stop the subversion of justice and twisting justice. Turn away from your malevolent acts and seek God for why should you die in your iniquities. Turn, turn from your wickedness and live says the Lord. Since death is the wages of sin, you need to change your way of thinking and turn back in repentance from your evil ways. You must return to God, for why should you die in your sins Ezekiel 33:11. Today is the day that you must stop perverting the course of justice and today is the day for you to desert Satan together with his works and turn to God so that you will live.

People who commit injustice lack knowledge: The Bible says “The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God’. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none who does good.” Psalm 14:1, 53:1. It is not only those who say there is no God that are fools, but every corrupt person who subverts justice and fail to consider the existence of God is a fool. The corrupt people who are committing injustice, together with repulsive and unspeakable deeds lack knowledge because God will intervene by judging them and avenging their victims. For this reason, the corrupt people should stop turning justice to gall but start doing what is right and acceptable before God Psalm 14:3, 53:3.

The perverse people must change before it is too late. They must start living uprightly by doing what is good. They must start living uprightly by doing what is right. They must obey God so that they will live and let His instructions be their greatest treasure. It is inevitable for them to keep the commandments of God in order to live, and consider His law and His teaching as precious as the apple of their eyes Proverbs 7:2. Therefore, “You shall keep My statutes and My judgments which if a man does, he shall live by them: I am the Lord” Leviticus 18:5. Refrain from distortion of justice, start practicing the laws of the Lord and obey His regulations, then you will find life through them.

Bribery and corruption

Bribery and corruption are the integral part of subversion of justice. Without bribery and corruption, injustice can never happen. Distortion of justice needs bribery and corruption to make it wholly complete. In other words, bribery and corruption are necessary and essential to turn justice to gall.

Bribery: it is the directive of God that we must not take bribes because a bribe makes you/one to ignore something that was clearly seen. Bribe is so dangerous that it will make a righteous person to twist the truth. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe makes people to turn a blind eye to what is right and ruin the cause of those who are innocent. The scripture says “And you shall take no bribe, for a bribe blinds the discerning and perverts the words of the righteous.” Exodus 23:8. Anyone who takes a bribe will not be able to tell the truth and such person will look the other way in order to deny justice to the righteous. Nowadays, people cooperate to commit injustice. Judges and leaders demand bribes to commit atrocities and rulers cheat in court by twisting the law. People throughout the world are experts at doing evil. Officials and judges ask for bribes. The influential people dictate what they want. So, they conspire together and twist the course of justice. As it is written “That they may successfully do evil with both hands — The prince asks for gifts. The judge seeks a bribe, and the great man utters his evil desire; so they scheme together.” Micah 7:3. Once a judge or ruler accepts a bribe, injustice will take place because the rich and the powerful person who give out the bribe will make his/her demand which will be communicated to the judge. Between them, they will plot together to subvert the course of justice. In such cases, the judges or leaders will accept bribes to let the guilty go free and cheat the innocent out of a fair trial. For a bribe, judges or rulers will set the guilty free and deprive the innocent of justice according to the Bible passage which says “Who justify the wicked for a bribe and take away justice from the righteous man.” Isaiah 5:23. From the passage, it is clear that people give bribe to pervert justice by letting the wicked go free and punish the innocent.

Many prophets had made the name of the Lord to be blasphemed among the Gentiles because of their corrupt practices and injustice. Several of them had taken bribes and then gave messages that were insulting to the Lord. They have used lies to sentence the innocent to death and to help the guilty go free, and countless people believer them. Numerous prophets have dishonored the Lord and bring shame on His glorious name by receiving bribes and by lying to the people who pay attention to them, thereby killing those who should not die, and promising life to those who should not live. As it is written “And will you profane Me among My people for handfuls of barley and for pieces of bread, killing people who should not die, and keeping people alive who should not live, by your lying to My people who listen to lies?” Ezekiel 13:19. Such people cannot deceive God because He knew the vast number of their sins and the depth of their rebellions. He knew that they are oppressing good people by taking bribes and depriving the poor of justice in courts. God knew that they are cheating honest people, taking bribes and robbing the poor of justice as stated by the Bible “For I know your manifold transgressions and your mighty sins: afflicting the just and taking bribes; diverting the poor from justice at the gate.” Amos 5:12. We need to know that only an honest ruler can make a nation strong, and a ruler who takes bribes will bring it to ruin. Any just ruler gives stability to his/her nation, but one who demands bribes destroys it. We can now deduce that justice alone can stabilize a country according to the scripture which says “The king establishes the land by justice, but he who receives bribes overthrows it.” Proverbs 29:4. Stop taking or giving bribes if you want your country to be established among the nations of the world.

Corruption: Many people are proud because of their enormous wealth and powerful positions to the extent that they have corrupted their God given wisdom due to their love of splendor. Numerous people in the world are so arrogant because they are famous and influential. They are misusing their wisdom to commit injustice. Countless people have corrupted their wisdom and they are misapplying it to subvert the course of justice thereby making fools of themselves.

This commandment is for everyone “‘If you will not hear, and if you will not take it to heart, to give glory to My name’, says the Lord of hosts, ‘I will send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings. Yes, I have cursed them already, because you do not take it to heart.’” Malachi 2:1-2. The blessings of anyone who fails to honour and give glory to the mighty name of the Lord will turn to curses. You better take seriously the need to honour the name of the Lord and discharge your duties as a priest/believer without partiality, else, your blessings will be cursed. It is inevitable for you to honour the Lord in whatever you do, you must pay attention and make up your mind to glorify His name in all your dealings by refrain from every form of perversion. People who broke the agreement that God made with them and turn their backs on the Lord through their teachings that have led others to do sinful things will be penalized. If you don’t want your blessings to turn to curses, do not stray from the right path, you must make sure that your teaching is not leading people astray and you must never break the covenant that God made with you Malachi 2:8.

Heed the warning, do not corrupt the covenant that God made with you. Your instructions must not cause people to stumble into sin and you must not leave the righteous path. Always remember that godliness is not a lucrative or money-making business. You must flee from those who have wicked minds and have missed out on the truth. The people who think godliness is a way to materials gain and religion is a road to riches must repent. If you want to be successful in your Christianity journey, you must stay away from people who are depraved in mind and deprived of truth, those who think that godliness is a means of gain and religion is a way to become wealthy 1 Timothy 6:5. Henceforth, keep away from people who always cause trouble, whose minds are corrupt and they have turned their backs on the truth.

False preachers/teachers constitute immensely to perversion of justice throughout the world.  These false teachers/preachers are like unthinking animals, creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed. They scoff at and speak evil of the things they do not understand, and they will utterly perish in their own corruption 2 Peter 2:12. These false teachers promise freedom to everyone, but they themselves are slaves of corruption and immorality for people are enslaved to whatever defeats them. These false teachers are slaves of depravity and defilement. They promise liberty to people when they themselves are slaves of filthy living and destructive habits 2 Peter 2:19. Beware of these false teachers so that you will not be led astray because anyone who is slave of sins and corruption can never give you freedom. It is for this reason that God made marvelous promises to us so that His nature would become part of us. Then we could escape our evil desires and the corrupt influence of this world. His promises that will enable us to share His divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires 2 Peter 1:4. Do not become part of any injustice, but utilize your gifts to escape from the destructive lust that is in the world since nothing good can ever come out of corruption and the corrupt people can never please God. The deeds/offerings of any corrupt person can never be acceptable to God, therefore, be upright and do justice.

God of Justice

Our God is a God of justice and His heavenly throne is supported by justice and fairness. He rules with righteousness and justice because righteousness and justice are the eternal foundation of His throne. The Bible says “Clouds and darkness surround Him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne.” Psalm 97:2. It is true that righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne but mercy, loving-kindness and truth always precede and characterize whatever He does.

God is ruling in His kingdom with love and faithfulness leading the way because love and faithfulness are servants before His throne. Since the heavenly kingdom of God is built on truth and justice. It is for this reason that love and faithfulness manifested/exhibited in everything He does. As it is written “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; mercy and truth go before Your face.” Psalm 89:14. It is evident that our God is a God of justice; since justice and judgment are the habitation of His throne with unfailing love and truth walking before Him as attendants. For this reason, the scripture says “The works of His hands are verity and justice; all His precepts are sure.” Psalm 111:7. God’s handiwork is honesty and justice, and He is faithful and just in all He does.

There is no injustice in God: Our God will neither do violence to justice nor disregard it. He will neither violate justice nor pervert it. God can be trusted to bring justice because He is a God of faithfulness without breach or deviation and He never does wrong. The Bible attested to this fact by saying “He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice, a God of truth and without injustice; righteous and upright is He.” Deuteronomy 32:4. Our God is perfect and just in all His ways, He is without deceit or wickedness, and He does what is right and fair every time. Though God cannot be seen but His power is very great and He is always fair. Humans cannot see God with natural eyes; even though He is just and righteous, He does not afflict. As it is written that “As for the Almighty, we cannot find Him, He is excellent in power, in judgment and abundant justice; He does not oppress.” Job 37:23. God’s power is immense that we cannot come near Him, but He is righteous and just in His dealings with us. For this reason, God is waiting to be merciful to you and show you His kindness. He is ready to have pity on you because He always does what is right, and blesses those who trust Him; according to the scripture which says “Therefore the Lord will wait, that He may be gracious to you; and therefore He will be exalted, that He may have mercy on you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for Him.” Isaiah 30:18.

Justice is with God: God alone can give humans justice, He is the only one who is capable of justifying those who wait for Him. Though we cannot see God as previously discussed but our cases are pending before Him. If we can wait patiently for Him, we will be justified as it is written that “Although you say you do not see Him, yet justice is before Him, and you must wait for Him.” Job 35:14. Do not forget that God will bring justice only if you can wait for Him. King Nebuchadnezzar corroborated this fact by saying “Now, I Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honour the King of heaven, all of whose works are truth, and His ways justice. And those who walk in pride He is able to put down.” Daniel 4:37. It can be deduced from the confession of King Nebuchadnezzar that there is no injustice in God. All the acts of God are just and true, and whatever He does is right and fair.

God will never pervert justice: Since our God is the God of all, He will not distort justice or condemn people without cause. He is never unfair and He will never do anything evil. We need to realize that God will neither do wrong nor twist justice because He is the Judge of all judges. The Bible affirmed this fact by saying “Surely God will never do wickedly, nor will the Almighty pervert justice.” Job 34:12. Since it is certain that God does not do evil and He is never unjust to anyone, then it means the Lord will defend the rights of orphans and widows. He will care for the strangers/foreigners, and give them the basic necessities of life. God will execute justice for the helpless and the needy. He will make sure that they treat them fairly and provide for their needs; as it is written “He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing.” Deuteronomy 10:18. God ensures that everyone receive justice and He loves strangers because we are all sojourners in this world. For this reason, God always install a ruler who will defend the poor, rescue the homeless and crush everyone who hurts them. Our God never fail to install rulers that will judge the poor fairly, help the needy and defeat their oppressors. Though after their installation of such rulers, usually follow the dictates of their hearts instead of the commandments of God. As it is written, “He will bring justice to the poor of the people; He will save the children of the needy, and will break in pieces the oppressor.” Psalm 72:4. The afflicted in the world must have this assurance that God will install rulers that will vindicate them, subdue their oppressors and bring justice to them.

It is time for us to acknowledge that God will neither prolong the lives of the wicked nor preserve their lives, but He will give the needy their rights and give the afflicted justice; according to the Bible passage which says, “He does not preserve the life of the wicked, but gives justice to the oppressed.” Job 36:6. God will not keep the wicked alive but He will give justice to the afflicted because He loves justice. It is for this reason that He endowed King Solomon with wisdom, knowledge and understanding. Because King Solomon did not ask for long life or riches or the lives of his adversaries instead, he asked for understanding to discern justice 1 Kings 3:10-14. Rulers/leaders throughout the world must love justice like Almighty God. Our rulers need to ask for the wisdom to govern their people from the Lord. They must ask for the wisdom to rule justly and understanding to do what is right at all times.

Justice is the light of the people: Pay attention to me believers, and listen to me nations. Instructions will come from the Lord and His justice will be a light to the nations. Law will proceed from the Lord and any nation that is obedient shall not walk in darkness because His divine law and teaching will cause justice to shine like a light for such nation. The scripture says “Listen to Me, My people; and give ear to Me, O My nation: for law will proceed from Me, and I will make My justice rest as a light of the people.” Isaiah 51:4. Since the law of the Lord will bring light to the people and His justice will become a light to the nations, any nation that is not perverting justice will never be in darkness.

Though this world is filled with corrupt and unjust people who are shameless, but God is in our midst for the sake of His Son Jesus Christ who died on the cross. Day-by-day He hands down justice and He does not fail. Morning by morning God renders justice to His people and He never fails to dispense His justice at dawn; according to the Bible passage which says, “The Lord is righteous in her midst, He will do no unrighteousness. Every morning He brings His justice to light; He never fails, but the unjust knows no shame.” Zephaniah 3:5. The Lord does right and He is always fair. With the dawn of each day, He brings His justice to light in our midst. God will make the righteousness of the just to go forth as the light, and their justice as the shinning sun of the noonday. God will make the innocence of the just to radiate like the dawn and the justice of their cause will shine like the noonday sun. As it is written “He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday.” Psalm 37:6. This is the heritage and token of reward for the just.

God will justify His people: God will fill our lands with fairness and righteousness. He will fill our nations with moral and spiritual rectitude; as the scripture says, “The Lord is exalted, for He dwells on high; He has filled Zion with justice and righteousness.” Isaiah 33:5. Since our Lord is a God of justice, He will restore us by His justice and those who repent will be revived by righteousness. We will be saved and freed by the Lord’s justice and those who repent will be pardoned by the Lord’s righteousness. As it is written that “Zion will be redeemed with justice and her penitents with righteousness.” Isaiah 1:27. Do not entertain any fear because God will deliver you with justice and you will be justified.

Age is not justice

Our age has nothing to do with how we judge or rule. Age is no guarantee of wisdom and understanding. Great men are not always wise and the aged might not understand judgment. People do not become wise merely because they live long and people don’t understand what justice is merely because they are old. At this point, we must realize that it is not mere age that make men wise, rather it is the Spirit of God that is in you that make you to be intelligent together with the gifts of the Holy Spirit that endow you with the spirit of discernment to understand justice. The Bible says, “Great men are not always wise, nor do the aged always understand justice.” Job 32:9. We can now conclude that age has nothing to do with justice. King Solomon is a typical example; he was twelve years old when he became the king of Israel. With the assistance of God, he dispensed justice in the land of Israel. The Bible confirmed this fact by saying “And all Israel heard the judgment of which the king had rendered; and they feared the king, for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to administer justice.” 1 Kings 3:28.

The perverted must not govern

The perverted must be prevented from ruling and the corrupt must not be allowed to govern. Should anyone who hates justice govern? No. Could God govern if He hated justice? No, God should govern the nations because He does not hate justice but loves it. Are you going to condemn the Almighty judge? No. Nobody must condemn God, the Judge of all judges. Also, it is not right for creatures to condemn their Creator. Dust who is mortal must never condemn/judge/argue with the Almighty God who is immortal. The Supreme Being that can kill or preserve Job 34:17. Anyone who is ready to govern must imitate God by establishing justice for the orphans and the oppressed so that people can no longer terrify them Psalm 10:18. You can only rule if you are ready to defend and protect the orphans and the needy.

Teach your household justice

It is important, necessary and essential for you to teach your household justice. Your household need to know what is right and acceptable before the Lord. The best legacy that you can leave for your household is to understand the justice of the Lord, and be able to discern what is good from what is evil. The Bible says “You shall teach your children, speaking of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down and when you rise up.” Deuteronomy 11:19. Learn from what happened to Eli the priest 1 Samuel 2:12. Tragedy befell his household because he failed to teach his children the justice of the Lord. The Bible confirmed this incident by saying “So the messenger answered and said ‘Israel has fled before the Philistine, and there has been a great slaughter among the people. Also, your two sons Hophini and Phineas, were dead; and the ark of God has been captured.”’ Then it happened that Eli fell off the seat and died 1 Samuel 4:17-18. If you don’t want similar fate to befall your household, then teach them not to turn justice to gall.

The love of God for justice

The Bible says, God love righteousness and justice. The earth is full of the loving-kindness of God. It is the love that God had for justice and fairness that prompted Him to fill this world with His grace, and He is so kind to everyone on earth. It is written that “He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.” Psalm 33:5. Do not forget that it is the love that the Lord had for whatever that is just and good that is sustaining this world; because the Lord delights in justice and He will never abandon His saints but preserve them forever. The Lord loves justice and He will never desert His faithful people. He always protects them but the offspring of the wicked will perish; according to the Bible passage which says “For the Lord loves justice and does not forsake His saints; they are preserved forever, but the descendants of the wicked shall be cut off.” Psalm 37:28. The choice is yours; it is either you execute justice and be preserved forever or pervert justice and perish, but our prayer is that you will make the right choice.

The scripture says, that the Lord God loves justice but hate robbery and injustice. He solemnly promised to reward the people who execute justice with eternal covenant. Our God loves justice but hates oppression and crime. However, He will faithfully reward His people for their deeds and make an eternal covenant with them. The Bible attested to this fact by saying “For I, the Lord love justice; I hate robbery for burnt offering; I will direct their work in truth, and will make with them an everlasting covenant.” Isaiah 61:8. Now you realize that God loves justice but hate dishonesty and wrongdoing, it is better for you to eradicate every form of injustice in your life. Since God will recompense your work, what reward will you get? Is it eternal life or eternal condemnation?

The election/selection of just rulers: It is the love that God had for justice that makes it possible for people to have just rulers. By the power of the Lord, kings/presidents govern successfully, and rulers make laws that are fair. When people elect/select a just and obedient ruler, it is by the power of the Lord. When such ruler does not oppress or mislead his/her people, it is by the love of God for justice; as it is written “By Me kings reign, and rulers decree justice.” Proverbs 8:15. God always guides the meek to justice and teach them His way. He will lead humble people to do what is right and to stay on the right path according the scripture which says “The humble He guides in justice, and the humble He teaches His way” Psalm 25:9. Any executive/leader/ruler who want God to guide him/her in justice must humble himself/herself so that God can teach such person His way.

The confession of Queen of Sheba confirmed this fact when she visited King Solomon. She said “Blessed by the Lord your God, who delighted in you, setting you on His throne to be king for the Lord your God! Because your God has loved Israel, to establish them forever, therefore He made you king over them, to do justice and righteousness” 2 Chronicles 9:8. You the rulers and the leaders, are you doing justice and righteousness? Can people vouch for you and your administration? Are people not fed up of your tenure/term because of injustice? Think carefully and amend your way today before it is too late.

The King’s strength loves justice: Jesus Christ our Lord was described as a mighty King. A lover of fairness, who saw that justice is done everywhere in Israel. He is a mighty king who love what is right; He has established justice in Israel, and He has brought righteousness and fairness to His people. As it is written “The king’s strength also loves justice; You have established equity; You have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob” Psalm 99:4. Since our Lord is the King of kings, then all the present kings/rulers/leaders must imitate Him by loving justice and establishing equity. They must act with justice and righteousness throughout their land/organization. If they can emulate the Lord and carry out the aforementioned steps, then God will accept their land/nation as wife forever, and instead of bride price He will give them justice, fairness, love and kindness; according to the scripture which says “I will betroth you to Me forever; Yes I will betroth you to Me in righteousness and justice, in loving-kindness and mercy” Hosea 2:19. If you want to be joined to the Lord forever, do not subvert justice but love justice as God Himself loves justice.

The mission of Christ and justice

It is a known fact that the mission of Jesus Christ was to give the sinners a second chance through repentance. His mission on earth was to redeem mankind and reconcile us with our Creator. Jesus Christ came into this world purposely to subdue the ruler of this world (the Devil) and give light to the people living under the shadow of death. He came to destroy the works of Satan and the realms of the darkness. Our Lord came into this world so that we will not perish in our sins but have eternal life. He came to save/deliver us from eternal condemnation and He gave us eternal salvation instead. Jesus Christ came to preach Good News to the poor, heal the brokenhearted and set the spiritual captives free.

Though the above mentioned is the mission of Christ on earth, but it is made possible because of the love that Almighty God had for justice. He sent His only begotten Son to the world to eradicate injustice and unrighteousness.

Prophesy about the government of Christ: We will compress the prophecy about the government of Christ due to time constraints. The Book of Isaiah stated that “For unto us a Child is born unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this” Isaiah 9:6-7. It is clear from these passages that the power and the authority of Christ will last forever. His peace will be endless. He will establish David’s throne and uphold his kingdom with honesty and fairness. He will rule with justice and righteousness.

Christ will execute justice: The Bible says God will established one of David’s descendants as king, and He will rule the people with faithfulness and love. He will be quick to do what is right and He will see that justice is done. A throne will be set up by grace and mercy in the kingdom of David. An honest judge will site on it seeking justice and pursing righteousness as it is written “In mercy the throne will be established; and One will sit on it in truth, in the tabernacle of David, judging and seeking justice and hastening righteousness” Isaiah 16:5. For this reason, “In that day the Lord of hosts will be for a crown of glory and a diadem of beauty to the remnant of His people, for a spirit of justice to Him who sits in judgment, and for strength to those who turn back the battle at the gate” Isaiah 28:5-6.

Reign of righteousness and peace: A righteous King is coming and honest disciples will rule under Him. A King will reign righteously and rulers will rule justly during His time. Christ the King who promotes righteousness, equity and fairness will rule forever, and His princes who promote justice will govern. As the scripture says “Behold a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule with justice” Isaiah 32:1. Then justice and righteousness will prosper everywhere. As it is written that “Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness remain in the fruitful field” Isaiah 32:16. Time has come that righteousness and justice must be done everywhere in the world according to the word of the Lord.

Cornerstone in Zion: Justice and fairness are the measuring lines that God will use to build.  God will test people with the measuring line of justice and the plumb line of righteousness.  Hailstorm will knock down their refuge which is made of lies and flood will sweep it away since it is made of deception; according to the Bible passage which says, “Also I will make justice the measuring line, and righteousness the plummet: the hail will sweep away the refuge of lies, and the water will overflow the hiding place” Isaiah 28:17. Do not forget to execute justice, else flood will destroy your deceptive security.

The seal of His mission: “Behold My Servant whom I uphold, My Elect One in whom My soul delights! I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the Gentiles. He will not cry out, nor raise His voice, nor cause His voice to be heard in the street. A bruised reed He will not break, and smoking flax He will not quench; He will bring forth justice for truth. He will not fail nor be discourage, till He has established justice in the earth; and the coastlands shall wait for His law” Isaiah 42:1-4. From these passages, we can conclude that the mission of our Lord Jesus Christ is about justice.

Leaders of Christianity

Listen to me you leaders of Christianity, do you know right from wrong? Is it not for you to know justice? Isn’t it your job to know justice? Are you not supposed to know what is just and acceptable to the Lord? Are you not supposed to be concerned about justice? Are you administering justice in your domain according to the instruction of the Lord? Numerous leaders of Christianity prefer to do evil instead of what is right; as it is written “And I said: ‘Hear now, O heads of Jacob, and you rulers of the house of Israel: Is it not for you to know justice? You who hate good and love evil: who strip the skin from My people, and the flesh from their bones’” Micah 3:1-2. These leaders strip off flesh through injustice and oppressions. But the Lord has filled me with power and His Spirit. I have been given the courage to speak about justice and strength to boldly declare the sins and the rebellions on of our leaders. So, listen to my message, you leaders of Christianity who hate justice and twist the truth. You leaders of Christianity who detest the justice and pervert everything that is right; according to the scripture which says “But truly I am full of power by the Spirit of the Lord. And of justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression and to Israel his sin. Now hear this, you heads of the house of Jacob and rulers of the house of Israel, who abhor justice and pervert all equity” Micah 3:8-9.

Countless leaders of Christianity have worn out the Lord with their words. And yet, they ask, ‘How did we do that?’ They did it by saying, ‘The Lord is pleased with evil and doesn’t care about justice’; according to the Bible passage which says “You have wearied the Lord with your words; Yet you say, ‘In what way have we wearied Him?’ In that you say, ‘Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the Lord, and He delights in them,’ or ‘Where is the God of justice?’” Malachi 2:17. Many of these leaders are so corrupt that they either turn a blind eye to the wrongdoings of their congregation because of gain and donations, or they will encourage their parishioners to live sinful lifestyle that they have chosen as an habit. These leaders remain unrepentant because though they deserve to be punished, God did not humiliate them, but treat them in a way that will bring honour to His name, since He has no pleasure in the death of the sinners. God always act to protect His honour, so He will not deal with these leaders based on the evil and corrupt things that they have done. As it is written, ‘“Then you shall know that I am the Lord, when I have dealt with you for My name’s sake, not according to your wicked ways nor according to your corrupt doings. O house of Israel’, says the Lord God’” Ezekiel 20:44. These leaders must repent and change immediately. They must neither rejoice nor think that they are getting away with all the atrocities that they have committed because though the Lord is slow to anger, but He will never keep His anger forever, says the Bible Psalm 103:8-9.

Commandments of the Lord

 The commandments of the Lord for justice is clear, because of His love for fairness and equity, all His commandments are against injustice and wickedness.

Executive justice: Enough you leaders and rulers. Stop your violence and oppression, and do what is right. Quit systematic robbing and cheating people out of their land and possessions. You have sinned too long, you rulers of the nations. Stop your violence and looting of the National or Federal treasury. Execute justice and righteousness. Cease confiscating people properties. The scripture says “Thus says the Lord God: ‘Enough, O princes of Israel! Remove violence and plundering, execute justice and righteous, and stop dispossessing My people,’ says the Lord God” Ezekiel 45:9. What God expects from our rulers is what is fair and right. Therefore, dispense true justice, and practice kindness and be compassionate to one another. See that justice is done to all, and be kind and merciful to each other. It is time to administer real justice and make fair decisions that are free of selfish interest. The Bible attested to this fact by saying, “Thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘Execute true justice, show mercy and compassion, everyone to his brother’” Zechariah 7:9. For this reason, these are the things that must be done: Speak the truth with one another; judge with truth and pronounce judgment that brings peace in your courts or domain.

It is inevitable that we must tell the truth to each other. We need to render verdicts that are just and lead to peace in our courts or gates according to the Bible passage which says “These are the things you shall do: Speak each man the truth, justice and peace” Zechariah 8:16. In a nutshell, we are commanded to be honest, execute justice and seek peace during our lifetime.

Justice should be for all: It is the commandment of the Lord that we must maintain justice and use righteousness in manner that is in conformity with the will of God which brings salvation. So, be just and fair to all. Do what is right and good for the Lord is coming soon to rescue you and to display His righteousness among us. The Bible corroborated this statement by saying, “Thus says the Lord: ‘Keep justice, and do righteousness, for My salvation is about to come, and My righteousness to be revealed’” Isaiah 56:1. Therefore, be honest and fair to all.

It is the directive of the Lord that you must neither raise a false report nor join forces with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness. Do not spread harmful rumors or help a criminal by giving false evidence to pervert justice. Listen to the word of the Lord which says “You shall not circulate a false report. Do not put your hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness” Exodus 23:1. For this reason do not follow the majority when they do wrong or when they give testimony to subvert justice. It is important that you must never be swayed by the crowd to twist justice according to the scripture which says “You shall not follow a crowd to do evil; nor shall you testify in a dispute so as to turn aside after many to pervert justice” Exodus 23:2. It is your duty to dispense justice to all, immaterial of their race, gender and age. You must never distort justice or stand in the way of justice. You must neither allow popular view to sway you nor stretch the truth to favour the influential people.

Justice must be administered: It is the instruction of the Lord to appoint judges and other officials in our cities/towns who will judge impartially. The people to be appointed must not be perverts or corrupt people, but they must be virtuous and people of integrity; according to the confirmation of the Bible passage which says “You shall appoint judges and officers in all your gates, which the Lord your God gives you, according to your tribes, and they shall judge the people with just judgment” Deuteronomy 16:18. God directed us to appoint judges who will administer justice so as to avoid chaos and anarchy in our habitation/land.

The judge to be appointed must judge fairly and render just decisions. Therefore, you must not distort justice or show favoritism. You must neither deny justice nor delay justice because justice delayed is like justice denied. You must not misinterpret or misapply judgment; you must not be partial or accept a bribe, for bribes blind the eyes of the wise and corrupt the decisions of the godly. As it is written “You shall not pervert justice; you shall not show partiality, nor take a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous” Deuteronomy 16:19. Heed warning, do not pervert justice or take a bribe as previously discussed to subvert the course of justice. ‘Borrow a leaf’ from the advice of Jehoshaphat to the appointed judges saying “Take heed to what you are doing, for you do not judge for man but for the Lord, who is with you in the judgment. ‘Now therefore, let the fear of the Lord be upon you; take care and do it, for there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, no partiality nor taking bribes.’”  2 Chronicles 19:5-7.

You must not deprive orphans and foreigners’ justice, says the Bible. Do not deny the strangers and the fatherless their rights. You must never obstruct legal rights of the immigrants or deny justice to orphans according to the scripture which says “You shall not pervert justice due the stranger or the fatherless, nor take a widow’s garment as a pledge” Deuteronomy 24:17. For this reason, do not deny anyone justice simply because he/she is poor. Make sure that the poor are given equal justice in court; just as the Bible says “You shall not pervert the judgment of your poor in his dispute” Exodus 23:6. You must not pervert justice due to anyone, so that it shall be well with you throughout your existence.

The injustice

Whenever a wicked person receives a bribe, it is to pervert the ways of justice. It is a corrupt person that will secretly takes a bribe to subvert the curse of justice. The Bible says “A wicked man accepts a bribe behind the back to pervert the ways of justice Proverbs 17:23. Do not forget that whenever a bribe is given or received injustice shall happen.

The instruments and methods of the fraudulent and greedy people are evil. The wicked will plan the schemes to ruin the poor and the lowly with lying words, even when the plea of the needy/victims is just and right. The smooth tricks of the scoundrels are evil. They plot crooked schemes and tell lie to convict the poor even when the cause of the poor is just and they beg for justice. As it is written “Also the schemes of the schemers are evil; he devises wicked plans to destroy the poor with lying words, even when the needy speaks justice” Isaiah 32:7. Therefore, the poor and the needy are greatly affected by injustice. The scripture says the field of the poor may yield much food, but it is swept away because of injustice. No matter the yield of the poor people’s farm they always get cheated out of what they grow and it will be swept away by the unjust. The poor people might have potential but it will be wasted through injustice if care is not taken; according to the Bible passage which says “Much food is in the fallow ground of the poor, and for lack of justice there is waste” Proverbs 13:23.

Nowadays the unjust people are mocking justice and the wicked scoff at justice. The lying witness are making fun of the court system and criminals think crime is really delicious. The corrupt witnesses are ridiculing the justice and the mouth of the wicked spread wrongdoing. The Bible warned by saying “A disreputable witness scorns justice, and the mouth of the wicked devours iniquity” Proverbs 19:28. No one is safe when these people who commit injustice are around. Everything they do is unjust. They follow a crooked path and no one who walks that path will ever be safe. These people don’t know how to live in peace or how to how to be fair with/to others. Their roads are crooked and their followers cannot find peace; as it is written “The way of peace they have not known, and there is no justice in their ways; they have made themselves crooked paths; whoever takes that way shall not know peace” Isaiah 59:8.

Numerous people around the globe does not care about justice, people are ignoring what is right and fair, they trust in what is false and speak lies. No one care about being fair and honest. People are very deceitful, they conceive evil deeds and then give birth to sin; according to the scripture which says “No one calls for justice, nor does any plead for truth. They trust in empty words and speak lies; they conceive evil and bring forth iniquity” Isaiah 59:4.

Therefore, justice is turned back and pushed aside, and righteous stands far off because truth has stumbled in public square, and honesty cannot enter. Injustice is everywhere; justice seems far away. Truth is chased out of court and honesty is shoved aside. Our courts oppose the righteous, and justice is nowhere to be found. Truth stumbles in the streets, and honesty has been outlawed. As it is written “Justice is turned back, and righteousness stand afar off; for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter” Isaiah 59:14. For this reason, honesty is lacking, he who leaves evil become a target. The Lord saw it and it displeased Him that there was no justice. It is a fact that truth is gone and anyone who renounces evil is attacked. The Lord was upset at the absences of justice. The Bible stated that “So truth fails, and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey. Then the Lord saw it and it displeased Him that there was no justice” Isaiah 59:15.

Injustice is to deny someone justice in the presence of God or to subvert someone in his/her lawsuit. Injustice is to deprive anyone of justice, in defiance of the Most High, or cheat anyone out of what is rightly theirs. The Lord does not approve these things. As it is written “To turn aside the justice due to a man before the face of the Most High, or subvert a man in his cause —The Lord does not approve” Lamentations 3:35-36. Stop the injustice, you who turn justice to woodworm and throw righteous to the ground. Anyone who turn justice to poison and relegated righteousness to the background will be doomed. It is enough, stop twisting justice and cheating people out of their rights. Cease perversion of justice and don’t make it a bitter pill for the oppressed, else you will perish. The scripture says “You who turn justice to woodworm, and lay righteousness to rest in the earth!” Amos 5:7. You must stop your acts of injustice and stop treating the righteous as dirt, else you will be doomed.

The difference between the just and the unjust

There are several ways to differentiate the just from the unjust, but the most common ways are their actions, reactions and speeches, since many unjust people may be living double life. ‘In a nutshell’ the most important ways are their behaviours and utterances.

The unjust do not understand justice: The unjust do not understand justice but the just who crave and seek the Lord understand it fully. Criminals don’t know what justice means, but all who respect and obey the Lord understand everything. As it is written “Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand all” Proverbs 28:5. Unless you seek the Lord, you can neither understand nor dispense justice, which means you are an unjust person. Until you choose good instead of evil and see that justice is done in your jurisdiction, you are one of the evil people. In order to prove that you are a just person and not a wicked person, you must hate what is evil, love what is right and make sure that justice prevail in the courts. The Bible attested to this fact by saying “Hate evil, love good; establish justice in the gate. It may be that the Lord God of hosts will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph” Amos 5:15. If you want God to be gracious to the people of your nation, hate evil and love what is good; turn your courts into true halls of justice.

Warn people without hypocrisy: Anyone who fails to deliver the message without holding back, by telling people that they have sinned and they have turned against the Lord is a wicked person. Since any just person will love his/her neighbors as himself/herself, it is only an unjust person that will not show seriousness when telling people about their sins. The scripture says “Cry aloud, spare not; lift up your voice like a trumpet; tell My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins” Isaiah 58:1. Whoever fails to warn or correct others because of gain or selfish interest is an unjust person. It is for this reason that Jesus Christ said “Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone” Matthew 23:23. Those teachers/preachers who are selective in their teaching/preaching together with those who ignore the important aspects of Christianity like justice, mercy and faith are among the unjust. Therefore, return in repentance to God, hold fast to love and mercy, together with righteousness and justice according to the Bible passage which says “So you, by the help of your God, return; observe mercy and justice, and wait on your God continually” Hosea 12:6. In order to prove that you are a just person, you must act with love, mercy and justice; and depend on the Lord.

Only the just can dispense justice: The Bible says, a good tree cannot produce bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot produce good fruit Luke 6:43. Hence, the just will not do injustice while the unjust cannot dispense justice because whenever justice is done, the just will be joyful. Anytime justice is executed, it will bring joy to the just but calamity to the evildoers. As it is written “it is a joy for the just to do justice, but destruction will come to the workers of iniquity” Proverbs 21:15. Since you know that justice is a joy to the godly, but it terrifies evildoers; is it difficult for you to do justice? Is the law of truth in your mouth? Is there any injustice on your lips? Are you walking with your Creator in peace and uprightness? Have you turn many people away from wickedness and sins? If you can answer these questions correctly and your conscience is clear, then you are among the just people according to the scripture which says “The law of truth was in his mouth, and injustice was not found on his lips. He walked with Me in peace and equity, and turned many away from iniquity” Malachi 2:6. Make sure that there is zero tolerance for injustice around you because doing what is right and fair pleases the Lord more than an offering. Remember that doing what is right and just is the delight of the Lord and it is more important to Him than your donations or offerings. As it is written “To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice” Proverbs 21:3.

Plead with God

It is important that you plead with God to discipline you with justice, not in His anger or reduce you to nothing. Tell the Lord to correct you as you deserve, but not in His anger, else you may be dead according to the scripture which says “O Lord, correct me, but with justice; not in Your anger, lest You bring me to nothing” Jeremiah 10:24. Remember, any child that can neither be corrected nor disciplined is an illegitimate child; so, in order to prove that you are a child of God, words of wisdom must come out of your mouth and your tongue must discuss justice at all times. Always do what is right, speak for justice and consistently make fair decisions. As it is written “The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of justice” Psalm 37:30. As a child of God you must dispense justice and teach people what is right from wrong. Though, no sinner will go unpunished, but God will correct you with justice and discipline you in fair manner.

The promise of God is to restore your captivity and when this happens, people will say the Lord will bless your home, his sacred hills and His temples in your land. Once more, people will utter these words saying “The Lord bless you, O habitations of justice and mountain holiness” Jeremiah 31:23. Hence, it is better to be honest and poor than to be dishonest and rich. Better is a little with righteousness and uprightness in every aspect and relation than great revenues with injustice according to the scripture which says “Better is a little with righteousness than vast revenue without justice” Proverbs 16:8. For this reason, do not ignore or neglect justice in all your dealings and every aspect of your life.

Learn from these examples

There are several examples of those who kept justice and there are several instances of injustice mentioned in the Bible, however, we will only discuss few of them.

Abraham: Abraham our forefather was a shining example of the people who did justice. The Lord even vouched for him that not only that he kept justice, but he taught and directed his family and descendants to obey God by doing what is right and fair/just. As it is written “For I have know him, in order that he may command his children and his household after him, that they keep the way of the Lord, to do righteousness and justice, that the Lord may bring to Abraham what He has spoken to him” Genesis 18:19. If Abraham our forefather was a just man, don’t you think it is time for you to eradicate every form of injustice from your life? Can God vouch for you that you are a just person? Will the heavens guarantee that you will teach and instruct your offspring and household to do justice?

The Rechabites: The children and descendants of Rechab obeyed the instructions of their father not to drink wine or act unjustly. Therefore, God made a covenant with them by the mouth of prophet Jeremiah by saying “Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: ‘Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not lack a man to stand before Me forever’” Jeremiah 35:1-8, 19. Are you fair to others? Are you acting justly without bias or discrimination in every area of your life? Do you want God to make an everlasting covenant with you and your descendants? Then refrain from every act of injustice.

King David: Since no human is without sin, King David committed several sins during his lifetime, but he was zealous for dispensation of justice. The Bible described him as a just king who ruled all Israel with fairness and justice. King David reigned over Israel and made sure that his people were always treated fairly and justly. The scripture confirmed this fact by saying “So David reigned over all Israel; and David administered judgment and justice to all his people” 2 Samuel 8:15. How many rulers are imitating King David by administering justice and equity to their people? Are you among those who govern by doing what is just and right? Is it justice or injustice that is prevalent in your domain? It is time to obey the Lord by doing justice to all.

The consequences of injustice

There are many consequences of injustice mentioned in the Bible, but because of time constraint, we will only discuss few of them.

Injustice shall ruin the wicked: The devastation caused by the wicked will drag them away because they refused to do what is just. The violence of the wicked will destroy them since they refused to dispense justice. The bad things that the evil people do shall be their downfall because they would not do justice or act justly. As it is written “The violence of the wicked will destroy them because they refuse to do justice” Proverbs 21:7. Do not forget you will only destroy yourself by being cruel and violent, and by refusing to live right.

The unjust will be doomed: Woe to those who enact unjust decrees and draft oppressive legislation. Doom to the lawmakers who pronounce unfair edicts and issue oppressive laws. Curse is any judge/magistrate who constantly pronounce and record unjust and oppressive decisions. ‘In a nutshell’ sorrow awaits those who write evil laws to oppress and make life hard for people. Their intention is to deprive the impoverished of their rights and rob the poor of justice; thereby looting widows and stealing from orphans. Such people are bent on depriving the poor of justice and denying the rights of the needy. ‘They always prey on the widows and take advantage of the orphans’ Isaiah 10:1-2. Such people must desist else they will become accursed.

Woe to those who build their business empire by injustice and exploited the less privileged by using their services for less wages. Doom to the people who build their organization/company through unrighteousness and amass wealth through corruption by making people to serve them with less pay, and at times will not give them their wages. ‘Curse is anyone who builds his/her home/house by injustice and expands it by dishonesty; by making people to work for him/her for nothing or by not paying people their full wages’ Jeremiah 22:13. Henceforth, stop the forced labour, corruption, exploitation and injustice, else you will be accursed.

Do not forget that adversaries will ensnare and prevail on whoever strays from the truth by committing injustice. If you don’t want to be put in spiritual bondage by the darkness, cease your unjust behaviours. If you don’t want to be devoured by the terrestrial powers, do what is right and acceptable before the Lord your ‘Habitation of justice’ Jeremiah 50:7. The only way to subdue the darkness and live a peaceful life is to do justice.

Benefits for the just

Since God loves justice, He will love those who do justice and such people have many benefits that will accrue to them if they endure till the end.

Justice for the oppressed: The Lord alone can give righteousness and justice to all who are treated unfairly. He will judge in favour of the oppressed and give them their rights. For all who are mistreated, the Lord will bring justice Psalm 103:6. Have the assurance that God will execute righteousness and justice not only for the just, but for all the oppressed. If you continue to do what is fair and right, He will not hand you over to those who will mistreat you. If you are doing what is just and good, He will not abandon or leave you to the mercy of your enemies Psalm 119:121. God will secure justice for you, He will feed you and set you free from your spiritual imprisonment. As it written “Who executes justice for the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry. The Lord gives freedom to the prisoners” Psalm 146:7. If you are just, God will provide for your needs and give you spiritual liberty.

God will guard and preserve the just: God will provide justice for the poor and defend the helpless. He will uphold the cause of the afflicted and defend the rights of the needy. God will act on behalf of the tormented and secure justice for those that are being persecuted Psalm 140:12. God always make sure that people are treated fairly and justice is done; He will neither leave nor forsake those who are loyal to Him but protect them. God guards the path of the just and preserves the way of His saints Proverbs 2:8. If you want God to guard and preserve you, do not pervert justice.

· They will be revived, refreshed and renewed according to the justice of the Lord Psalm 119:149.

· They will be happy and blessed in everything they do Psalm 106:3.

· They will be hidden, pardoned, protected and rescued from the Lord’s anger on the day of destruction Zephaniah 2:3.

· They will eat the best of the land Isaiah 1:19.

Finally, let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers Ephesians 4:29. Hence, let justice and fairness flow like a river that never runs dry. Let justice flow like a stream, and righteousness like a river that never becomes dry. We want to see a mighty flood of justice for the inhabitants of the world together with an endless river of righteous living Amos 5:24.

The Seal: Amos 6:12: Do horses run on rocks? Does one plow there with oxen? Yet you have turned justice into gall, and the fruit of righteousness into wormwood.