I grew up in a Christian home, and my faith remains an essential part of my life. One defining aspect of Christianity is love. It’s well known, both among Christians and non-Christians, that Jesus was the epitome of love, evident in his life and teachings. As anyone who attended Sunday School can attest to, we are taught how to be demonstrate this to others: share your snacks, lend a pencil, stand up for others, be kind, and forgive. Over time, these lessons can feel trite. They start to seem like common sense, part of simply being a decent human being—watching your words, forgiving, and making room for others. Yet this apparent simplicity can cause us to overlook their true importance. What once seemed significant may fade into the background, and the "big things" become the "little things." So, there is the temptation to move on to thinking about things like miracles or prophecies, de-emphasizing the basics.
Earlier this year, I attended a conference that once again brought to the forefront love’s fundamental position, and provided me with more understanding on why it’s so important and the value it holds for us.
The book of Psalms reveals something key to us: “God has taken his place in the divine council; in the midst of the gods he holds judgment” (Psalm 82:1, ESV). The King James Version phrases it as, “God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods.” Who are these “gods” God stands with? We are. Jesus affirms this in John 10:34 (AMP): “Is it not written in your Law, ‘I said, you are gods [human judges representing God, not divine beings]”?” We are the judges in whose midst God stands.
God has placed us in a high and honorable position as judges on the earth. But what do judges do? Psalm 82:2-4 provides the answer: “How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked” (ESV). Our role as judges is clear: to help the afflicted and the destitute, to stand up for the weak and those in need. Jesus embodied this role in Luke 4:18, where he said: “…He sent me to tell prisoners they are free and to tell the blind they can see again. He sent me to free those who have been treated badly” (ERV).
These verses emphasize that the high position of a believer—as a judge—is help others- maintain the right of the afflicted and destitute. If we are not actively helping the poor and needy, we are neglecting our role. This does not suppose that we do what is beyond our means, but in whatever ways we can, we reach out to those in need. To exercise that God-given place as judges in the earth, we must meet people’s needs, by the measure we have. Luke 16:10 (CSB) says, “Whoever is faithful in very little is also faithful in much.” It takes godly character to serve others and address their needs without waiting to be prompted. When we see a problem in someone’s life, we should be moved to solve it, if it’s within our power. It takes Godhood to meet the needs of others.
It takes Godhood to meet the needs of others.
This season has been a key reminder for me to take my place as God has ordained: to reach out to the needy and oppressed and meet their needs as the ultimate expression of love. Going back to a focus on love, in my Christian walk, which is the most fundamental thing, has reinforced for me the value of going back to basics. Returning to first principles isn’t just about faith—it’s about revisiting the foundation of anything we do. Why did you start that business? Why did you make that move? Why did you begin that journey. It’s a call to remember your initial purpose and renew your focus. Remember that the first things are the last things.
I appreciate the opportunity to hear your thoughts on any of the ideas or experiences expressed here. You may reply directly to this email, leave a comment, or connect with me on Instagram or Twitter. I look forward to hearing from you.
"It takes Godhood to meet the needs of others." This is so encouraging - that we, as believers, have the capacity to demonstrate the love of God by taking care of His people, this earth, and exercising our rights as judges. This message was very timely and reminds me of the authority and rights that God has empowered us with. Shalom!