The God of Israel has spoken;
the Rock of Israel has said to me:
When one rules justly over men,
ruling in the fear of God,
he dawns on them like the morning light,
like the sun shining forth on a cloudless morning,
like rain that makes grass to sprout from the earth.
2 Samuel 23:3-4 (ESV)
Who do you lead? Who is under your influence? Might they be in your workplace? In your family? In your church, or even among your friends? Everyone is given opportunities for leadership in life. What is yours?
David’s last words recorded in 2 Samuel 23 reflect on his own life, career, and the value of godly leadership. He hears a word from the Lord about ruling “justly;” that is, ruling with righteous dealings with people. In short, applying law with just and fair leadership.
When David considers the history of his own house (2 Sam 23:5), he sees a living example of God’s favor and faithfulness to just ruling. He feels as if he is living in the morning light of God’s blessing.
And so are we. While King David ruled with justice, King Jesus is ruling now with justice all the more. On his throne, Jesus offers to blameworthy man a path of cleansing and restoration. Life springs forth from the rule of Jesus. Grass sprouts from the earth as sinners rise to repentance and freedom. The downtrodden and ashamed lift their gaze with radiant faces. They are living in the bright of a cloudless dawn.
Extend the just rule of Jesus throughout your life. Offer grace, forgiveness, and justice to those under your leadership. May his light shine.
J. A. Syverson 