God’s Word of Praise and Thanksgiving
Introduction
Psalm 82: This psalm is in the form of a prophetic oracle of judgment whereby God rebukes unjust earthly rulers. The psalm concludes with a call upon God to exercise divine authority over all the nations of the world.
Scripture Reading
God the Supreme Ruler
1God presides in the heavenly council;
in the assembly of the gods he gives his decision:
2“You must stop judging unjustly;
you must no longer be partial to the wicked!
3Defend the rights of the poor and the orphans;
be fair to the needy and the helpless.
4Rescue them from the power of evil people.
5“How ignorant you are! How stupid!
You are completely corrupt,
and justice has disappeared from the world.
6 ‘You are gods,’ I said;
‘all of you are children of the Most High.’
7But you will die like mortals;
your life will end like that of any prince.”
8Come, O God, and rule the world;
all the nations are yours.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 82:8
Come, O God, and rule the world; all the nations are yours.
Reflect
Today’s reading describes a trial in heaven. The “heavenly council” (verse 1) is derived from an ancient Near East concept of attendant beings who surround the supreme god and who glorify, praise, and carry out the will of the supreme god. Reread verses 2-7. What does God say to those who have been appointed to govern the people? Do these verses speak to situations in our world today? If so, how?
Pray
Come, O God, and rule the world. You are the Sovereign God of the universe. Guide us in the ways of your justice, mercy, and love. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 104: A psalm that praises God as Creator.
