What actions can we take to avoid "wronging a man in his cause"? The Call to Justice “to deny a man justice before the Most High, or to subvert him in his lawsuit—the LORD does not approve.” (Lamentations 3:35–36) Why This Matters • God’s character is perfectly just (Deuteronomy 32:4). • When we distort justice, we misrepresent Him (Proverbs 17:15). • The Lord personally defends the wronged (Proverbs 22:22–23). Actions That Guard Us from Wronging Someone’s Cause • Examine motives – Ask, “Am I favoring influence, wealth, friendship, or convenience over truth?” (Exodus 23:2–3, 8). • Listen fully before judging – “The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.” (Proverbs 18:17) – Give each party equal time and attention. • Require corroboration – “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” (Deuteronomy 19:15). – Avoid snap decisions based on rumors or partial information. • Speak the truth plainly – “These are the things you must do: Speak truth to one another; render sound judgments.” (Zechariah 8:16). – Refuse flattery or spin that obscures facts. • Remain impartial – “You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small and the great alike.” (Deuteronomy 1:17). – Guard against bias toward status, ethnicity, or background (James 2:1–4). • Protect the vulnerable – God repeatedly warns against oppressing the poor, widow, orphan, or foreigner (Exodus 22:21–24; Isaiah 1:17). – Offer legal or practical assistance when someone lacks resources to defend himself (Proverbs 31:8–9). • Honor due process – Investigate thoroughly (Proverbs 25:2). – Follow lawful procedures rather than shortcuts that favor the powerful (Acts 25:16). • Keep personal gain out of it – “Cursed is he who accepts a bribe to strike down an innocent person.” (Deuteronomy 27:25). – Disclose conflicts of interest; step aside when necessary. • Practice restorative intent – Aim not merely to win a verdict but to restore right relationships (Micah 6:8; Matthew 5:23–24). – Encourage repentance, restitution, and reconciliation. Daily Habits That Sustain Justice • Regular Scripture intake trains conscience (Psalm 19:7–11). • Prayerful self-examination uncovers hidden bias (Psalm 139:23–24). • Fellowship with diverse believers widens empathy (Colossians 3:11–14). • Accountability partners help keep motives pure (Hebrews 3:13). • Consistent, honest work habits bleed into judicial fairness (Ephesians 4:25, 28). Encouragement God “loves righteousness and justice” (Psalm 33:5). As we align with His heart, we become safe people who refuse to wrong anyone in his cause, reflecting the very character of our righteous Redeemer. |
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