How can we trust God's plan when facing unjust situations like Jesus? Facing Unjust Hands: Setting the Scene • “On hearing this, Pilate asked if the man was a Galilean.” (Luke 23:6) • This single question triggers a jurisdictional shuffle—Jesus is sent to Herod (vv. 7-12). • Though innocent, He is bounced between political powers, highlighting raw injustice. Recognizing God’s Sovereign Thread • Isaiah 53:10—“Yet it pleased the LORD to crush Him…” God’s plan was woven into the injustice. • Acts 2:23—“This Man was handed over by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge…” • Luke 23:6 shows no surprise or panic in Jesus; His silence (v. 9) reveals settled confidence in that plan. Why We Can Trust the Plan • God foreknew every step (Psalm 139:16). • He remains righteous even when men act wickedly (Psalm 97:2). • He bends injustice for ultimate good (Romans 8:28). • Jesus’ own path proves God does not abandon His obedient children (Luke 24:6-7). Practical Steps When You Face Unjust Situations • Remember the pattern: cross first, then resurrection. Expect eventual vindication. • Refuse retaliation—“When He suffered, He made no threats” (1 Peter 2:23). • Commit your cause to God—“Trust in the LORD… He will bring forth your righteousness as the light” (Psalm 37:5-6). • Keep speaking truth respectfully, as Jesus did before Pilate (John 18:37). • Surround yourself with Scripture; memorize key promises (Isaiah 41:10; Hebrews 13:5-6). Anchoring Verses for Unjust Seasons • Genesis 50:20—What others mean for evil, God turns for good. • Romans 8:31—If God is for us, who can be against us? • 2 Corinthians 4:17—Current afflictions are “light” compared with eternal glory. • Revelation 21:4—Ultimate justice: every tear wiped away. Living It Out Daily • Start mornings by reading a Gospel scene of Jesus’ trial; let His composure shape yours. • Journal specific injustices and, beside each, write a correlating promise of God. • Speak blessing over those who wrong you (Luke 6:28). • Serve faithfully in present tasks; Jesus ministered even while under scrutiny (Luke 23:28-31). • Celebrate small evidences of God’s faithfulness; they preview the larger vindication to come. |