God the Judge

HOWEVER nations might justify and judge their actions, the ultimate Judge of their conduct is God. His righteousness, which flows from His very character, is the final standard against which right and wrong is measured (Psalm 9:4). This righteous Judge rebuked the nations of David’s day for failing to do what David had done in Psalm 8—acknowledge God (Psalm 8:1, 9).

The kingdom of Israel quickly rose to a place of prominence and power under David and his successor, Solomon. This window of opportunity opened during a period in which no one empire dominated the Middle East (c. 1000 B.C.). Egypt was in decline and Assyria had not yet become a major power. The two Israelite kings seized the moment by strengthening Israel’s defenses, expanding its borders, increasing its trade, and storing up enormous wealth.

Meanwhile, many of Israel’s neighbors continued to ignore God and govern with wickedness. Instead of ruling their people with justice and compassion, they often oppressed them. They also attacked other nations without provocation, destroying innocent people (Psalm 9:6). But God responded by destroying the destroyers. He pledged not to forget the needy and helpless, and avenged the injustices they had suffered by blotting out the wicked (Psalm 9:7–18).

The same righteous God sits in judgment on the world today. He watches what nations do, and will not leave their sins unpunished. Nations and their leaders are still accountable to the Lord for their programs and policies. This fact should kindle a healthy fear of the Lord and a humble recognition that human leaders are only mortal (Psalm 9:20).

Courtesy of Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Commentary
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version®, NKJV © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.