Blessed Boasting – God Loves Justice

Thus says Yehovah, “Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am Yehovah who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,” declares Yehovah (Jeremiah 9:23-24).

Jeremiah tells us not to boast in our wisdom, works or wealth because God is the source of these (wisdom – Proverbs 9:10; works – Ephesians 3:10; wealth – Deuteronomy 8:18). We may boast that God opens our minds and hearts to know and understand Him (Luke 24:17).

God wants us to understand three aspects of His character – lovingkindness, justice and righteousness. Checed is the unmerited, enduring love that God has for those who are in relationship with Him. Justice is understanding and practicing God’s law in our daily lives.

In describing God’s character Moses explained, “his work is perfect, for all his ways are justice” (Deuteronomy 32:4). David proclaimed, “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne” (Psalm 89:14). Also, “He loves righteousness and justice” and desires that “the earth [be] full of the steadfast love of Yehovah” (Psalm 33:5).

Like His Father, Jesus’ character is defined by justice. His died for our sins [He suffered an injustice] in order to bring justice to all people. “Behold my servant, [Jesus] whom I uphold, My chosen, in whom My soul delights; I have put My Spirit upon him; He will bring forth justice to the nations” (Isaiah 42:1).

When Jesus returns, He will reign in justice, “Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in justice he judges” (Revelation 19:11).

Believers are called on to reflect the character of our God and Savior, “to keep the way of Yehovah by doing righteousness and justice” (Genesis 18:19). He wants us to “walk in the way of righteousness, in the paths of justice” (Proverbs 8:20). Just as the Holy Spirit empowered Jesus to practice justice during His time on earth, the Spirit enables us to practice justice. “The Spirit is poured upon us from on high… Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field” (Isaiah 32:15-16).

Practicing justice is an act of worship, “To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to Yehovah than sacrifice” (Proverbs 21:3). God favor is on those who pursue justice, “Blessed are they who practice justice, who do righteousness at all times” (Psalm 106:3).

Practicing justice is part of our reasonable service to God, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does Yehovah require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8). Our obedience brings about the will of God for all people, “But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream” (Amos 5:24).