Anchor My Faith

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Author: Stephen Weller
1,126 words, 6 minutes read time

Justice Is from the Lord

Many seek the face of a ruler, but it is from the Lord that a man gets justice. (Proverbs 29:26 ESV)

Looking at the context of this verse, we notice that verses 25 and 26 go together: ²⁵ “The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe. ²⁶ Many seek the face of a ruler, but it is from the Lord that a man gets justice.”

Jesus says, “do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do” (Luke 12:4 ESV). When we do fear man it becomes a share and can lead us into sin as it did Abraham: 11 ‘When he was about to enter Egypt, he said to Sarai his wife, “I know that you are a woman beautiful in appearance, 12 and when the Egyptians see you, they will say, ‘This is his wife.’ Then they will kill me, but they will let you live. 13 Say you are my sister, that it may go well with me because of you, and that my life may be spared for your sake.”’ “And Abraham said of Sarah his wife, “She is my sister.” And Abimelech king of Gerar sent and took Sarah” (Genesis 20:2 ESV). Because of fear, sin deepens as Sarah is now the wife of another.

“But whoever trusts in the Lord is safe” needs some explanation. Those who trust the Lord under persecution would not be considered as being safe because they may end up being tortured and even killed for their faith. They are not safe from possible physical or emotional harm, but they are safe to continue the work of the Lord until it is finished.

One who acts primarily out of fear of man demonstrates that he does not trust the Lord. Likewise, the one who seeks only the face of a ruler for justice shows a lack of belief that it is ultimately God who works to bring it about. Fear of both man and God is healthy but there is priority. That priority is found in Proverbs 24:21 – 22 ESV: ²¹ “My son, fear the Lord and the king, and do not join with those who do otherwise, ²² for disaster will arise suddenly from them, and who knows the ruin that will come from them both?” We should respect authority, both human and divine.

Many may seek the face of a ruler for justice, but that man will one day find out when he stands before God that he will get justice. There are two levels of justice based on two sets of laws: of man and of God. Both are important for the sake of justice, but the most important, because of eternal consequences, is in relationship to God. Justice is determined on our relationship with Jesus. As a perfect sacrifice Jesus provided justice for us who believe in him and are born spiritually through his death on the cross. If we don’t believe, then like the man in our verse justice will require us to remain spiritually dead.

Father how thankful we are as followers of Jesus Christ that we are free from the penalty of the Law and have eternal life. We deserved to die because of our sin but he died in our place. Thank you.

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Summary Theme

True justice and favor come from the LORD, not from human authority.

Summary Paragraph

Proverbs 29:26 highlights the natural human tendency to seek favor, approval, or judgment from rulers and those in positions of power. While earthly authorities may appear to control outcomes, the proverb redirects the reader’s trust toward God as the ultimate source of justice. Human systems are limited, fallible, and often influenced by bias or corruption, but the LORD alone judges righteously and determines what is truly just. This verse calls believers to shift their dependence away from people and toward God, recognizing His sovereign authority over all decisions and outcomes.

Discussion Questions with Extended Answers:

1. Why do people tend to seek favor from rulers or those in authority?
   People often seek favor from those in authority because they believe those individuals have the power to influence outcomes—whether in legal matters, employment, or social standing. This reflects a natural desire for security, advancement, or protection. However, this tendency can lead to misplaced trust if individuals begin to rely more on human approval than on God’s sovereignty. The proverb exposes this inclination and invites believers to examine where their confidence truly lies.
2. What does it mean that “justice for man comes from the LORD”?
   This phrase emphasizes that ultimate justice is not determined by human systems but by God Himself. While rulers may issue judgments, their decisions are subject to error, bias, or limitation. God, however, sees all things perfectly and judges with complete righteousness. This means that even when human justice fails, God’s justice prevails—either in this life or in His eternal judgment. Believers can therefore rest in the assurance that God’s decisions are always right and final.
3. How should this verse shape a believer’s response to authority?
   This verse does not discourage respect for authority but places it in proper perspective. Believers are called to honor and submit to governing authorities as part of God’s order, yet they must not elevate human authority above God. When decisions are made by leaders, believers should trust God’s sovereignty over those outcomes rather than placing ultimate hope in human favor. This fosters humility, peace, and a steady faith regardless of circumstances.
4. How can relying on human favor become spiritually dangerous?
   Relying on human favor can lead to compromise, fear of man, and a weakened trust in God. When individuals prioritize pleasing people over honoring God, they may adjust their values or actions to gain approval. This can result in spiritual instability and misplaced priorities. The proverb warns against this by reminding believers that God alone is the source of true justice, encouraging them to remain faithful to Him rather than seeking human validation.
5. What comfort does this proverb provide in situations of injustice?
   This proverb offers deep comfort by affirming that injustice at the human level does not escape God’s notice or authority. Even when rulers act unfairly or outcomes seem unjust, believers can trust that God ultimately governs all things and will bring about true justice. This assurance helps guard against despair and bitterness, enabling believers to endure difficult situations with faith, patience, and confidence in God’s righteous judgment.