Psalm 82 presents a stunning picture of God’s judgement being declared over all earthly powers, both human and demonic. In a world so full of evil and injustice this vision is a ray of divine light. The psalm depicts God enthroned in a great assembly (see also 1 Kings 22:19-21) among the “eloyhim”. This Hebrew word denotes a spiritual being. It can refer to the infinite eternal God, Yahweh, or to finite spiritual beings like angels and demons (who are also called ‘sons of God’ – Job 1:6). It is before this assembly that God declares his judgement (as is also depicted in the book of Revelation). He holds all worldly authorities guilty for the evil and injustice in their realms. God cares about what is happening in the world and there is no injustice that will not be redressed. Paul tells us that “the authorities that exist have been established by God” (Romans 13:1). This applies to both human and spiritual authorities (i.e. Ephesians 6:12). It not only applies to national rulers and cosmic spiritual authorities but also to the small bit of influence God has given you. Before you point the finger, therefore, at those who influence your life, take note of your influence on others. Is your influence on others positive? Are you encouraging others or diminishing them? Let each person take note of their own influence and keep short accounts with God.
Ask God to show you how you can be a positive influence on those around you.
Read Psalm 82.
