S232P3 – Just Psalms: generous justice
Psa. 112:5-7
It is well with the man who deals generously and lends; who conducts his affairs with justice. For the righteous will never be moved; he will be remembered forever. He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord.
His lack of wisdom manifest itself in just about every area of his life. He was foolish with his words, his relationships, and his responsibilities. It was no wonder that he was frequently out of work and in need of someone to provide what he should have been able to provide for himself. When he asked to spend a night on my couch, I opened my home because he was family and it would be for only one night. The next morning before leaving, he asked if I could spare some money. I hesitated for a moment because his poverty was the result of his own actions and choices, and I thought it would not be fair for him to benefit from my hard work. Then, I realized that it does not matter why he was in need. Justice simply demands provision for all who lack.
The chapter from which this passage is taken deals with how the wealthy person is to behave. There is a reason why it would be unjust for those who have in abundance to neglect those who are in need. Our provision comes from God, and our responsibility is to be good stewards of what He lends us. Yes, we are entrusted with material wealth and objects for a time, but they are not ours. The righteous person who deals justly with others will recognize this and share this provision generously, whether lent or given. We cannot be so naive as to think that the things which God places in our hands are meant only for our good. God provides more than enough for us to make sure that others also are provided for.
The inherent inequity of this world and its system requires there to be the haves and the have-nots. The justice of God’s kingdom requires the opposite. That is why scripture instructs us on many occasions to be generous with what God has provided us. Those who trust him always to provide will gladly part with what they have because there is no fear of being without. It was never theirs anyway. To deal generously and justly with others means that we have confidence in God’s provision not only to provide for us but also to provide for others through us. Father, help us to deal generously and justly with others as a testimony to our trust in You and your power to provide.