How should we respond when witnessing injustice, as seen in 2 Samuel 16:4? Setting the Scene • “Then the king said to Ziba, ‘All that belonged to Mephibosheth is now yours.’ ‘I humbly bow,’ Ziba said. ‘May I find favor in your eyes, my lord the king.’” (2 Samuel 16:4) • David, pressed by Absalom’s revolt, hears Ziba’s report that Mephibosheth has betrayed him. • Without investigating, David transfers the estate—an unjust decision later exposed (cf. 2 Samuel 19:29). Recognizing Injustice • Property is taken from a loyal man based on unverified testimony. • Scripture shows the danger of judging on one side of a story (Proverbs 18:13, 17). • David’s haste illustrates how even godly leaders can act unjustly when facts are missing. Heart Posture When Injustice Appears • Grieve wrongs without growing bitter (Psalm 37:7–9). • Stay slow to speak, quick to listen, slow to anger (James 1:19–20). • Trust God’s sovereignty; He will bring hidden things to light (1 Corinthians 4:5). Practical Responses Today • Gather full information before acting or speaking. – Listen to all parties involved (Deuteronomy 19:15). – Verify evidence; do not assume motives. • Stand for truth even if it costs. – Refuse to enable favoritism or partiality (Leviticus 19:15). – Use influence to restore what was wrongly taken. • Intercede for the oppressed. – Seek justice, correct the oppressor, defend the fatherless (Isaiah 1:17). – Encourage reconciliation when repentance is shown, as David later attempts. • Maintain humility. – Recognize we too can misjudge; repent quickly when wrong. – Keep a teachable spirit under God’s Word. Promises of God for the Wronged • “The LORD works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed” (Psalm 103:6). • “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it” (Psalm 37:5). • Ultimate vindication rests in Christ, who will judge impartially (Acts 17:31). |
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