Introduction
Psalm 89:14 declares with profound simplicity: *”Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.”* These words underscore the unshakable principles that lie at the heart of God’s character and governance. In a world often marred by inequity and moral ambiguity, this passage serves as both a beacon and a challenge, calling us to consider righteousness and justice as cornerstones of our own lives.
The Meaning of Righteousness and Justice
The dual themes of righteousness and justice are inseparable in their divine origin. Righteousness is about living in alignment with God’s will—choosing what is right, fair, and morally upright, even when it is inconvenient or unpopular. Justice, on the other hand, involves the equitable treatment of all people, an unwavering commitment to fairness, and an active stance against oppression and wrongdoing.
The psalmist does not present these attributes as mere aspirations or optional virtues but names them as the very foundation of God’s throne. This imagery conveys a powerful truth: God’s sovereignty is not arbitrary but is exercised in perfect accordance with these principles. Righteousness and justice are not only attributes of God’s character—they are also His moral guidelines for humanity.
Righteousness and Justice in Daily Life
How do we, as individuals, integrate these divine principles into our lives? Living righteously requires self-discipline, humility, and a willingness to seek God’s wisdom in all circumstances. It might mean speaking truth when deceit is easier, treating others with kindness even when it is undeserved, or making choices that prioritize integrity over personal gain.
Justice, in practice, calls for an outward focus. It asks us to be attentive to the needs of others, especially those who are marginalized or vulnerable. It might mean advocating for fairness in the workplace, standing up against discrimination, or lending a helping hand to someone in need. Justice requires not only compassion but also courage—a willingness to challenge systems and behaviors that perpetuate harm.
Personal Reflection
When I meditate on Psalm 89:14, I am struck by how often I fall short of embodying righteousness and justice in my own life. It is easy to prioritize my own comfort or convenience over doing what is right. There have been moments when I chose silence rather than risking confrontation in the face of wrongdoing. Yet, this verse serves as a gentle but firm reminder that my life should be a reflection of God’s unwavering standards.
One personal experience that comes to mind is when I witnessed a colleague being unfairly treated at work. Initially, I hesitated to get involved, thinking it wasn’t my place. But as I reflected on the idea of justice as an active principle, I realized that remaining silent would make me complicit. I chose to speak up, and though the situation was uncomfortable, the outcome brought greater fairness and understanding to our workplace. That moment taught me that justice is not passive—it demands action, even at a personal cost.
Conclusion
Psalm 89:14 offers a profound challenge to us all: to make righteousness and justice the foundation of our lives, just as they form the foundation of God’s throne. These principles are not always easy to live by, but they offer a pathway to greater alignment with God’s divine will and a more equitable, compassionate world.
Let us, then, strive to reflect God’s character in our daily lives. May we seek righteousness in our hearts and extend justice with our hands, walking in steadfast love and faithfulness as we honor the example set before us in scripture.
The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”’
Blessings,
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 