All houses are built upon foundations that support or hold the weight of everything that is built upon them. Scripture says that righteousness and justice are the foundation of God’s throne. This is where I get my definition of biblical Justice (the equitable and impartial application of the rule of God’s moral law in society).
Righteousness is God’s standards for humanity which He has laid out in Scripture, while justice is a term used for “what is right” or “as it should be.” When you put those two together, biblical justice becomes an action of applying God’s moral standards toward each other. In other words, we shouldn’t just talk about justice, we are to exercise it. This is why Scripture clearly commands us “to do justice.”
Biblical justice is rooted in seeking the welfare of those who are unable to fend for themselves. Why? Because these are the kinds of people who frequently get abused and treated unjustly. Scripture tells us to show care and concern for the poor, widows, orphans and foreigners. It also applies to groups of people who get targeted by systematic oppression based on race. Simply put, we are to defend and seek the welfare of those who are most vulnerable to suffer from injustice. The Bible tells us to “do good to everyone,” so justice extends to anybody who is being treated unfairly. So when we see situations that aren’t right, meaning they go against God’s moral standards, it is our duty as believers to take action. We can’t just talk about justice; we must do justice. That’s why Micah 6:8 says, “Do justice.” It does not talk about how we should feel or not feel toward justice. It says we are to do it.
What are some practical ways you can “do justice” in your life?
Scriptures to read:
Psalms 89:14
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne. Unfailing love and truth walk before you as attendants.
Isaiah 1:17
Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.
Galatians 6:10
Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith.
Jeremiah 22:3
This is what the Lord says: Be fair-minded and just. Do what is right! Help those who have been robbed; rescue them from their oppressors. Quit your evil deeds! Do not mistreat foreigners, orphans, and widows. Stop murdering the innocent!
Micah 6:8
No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.
(Scriptures are from the New Living Translation)
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