Chapter 12/ "Is There Injustice With God?" - Jehovah Hates Injustice

Jehovah is not oblivious to injustice.  He sees what is going on. Regarding Noah's day, the Bible tells us:  "Jehovah saw that the badness of man was abundant in the earth and every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only bad all the time." (Genesis 6:5)  Consider the implications of that statement. Often, our perception of injustice is based on a few incidents that we have either heard about or personally encountered.  In contrast, Jehovah is aware of injustices on a global scale. He sees it all! More than that, he can discern the implications of the heart-the debased thinking behind unjust acts. -Jeremiah 17:10. 

But Jehovah does more than simply take note of injustice.  He also cares about those who  have been victimized by it.  When his people were cruelly treated by enemy nations, Jehovah was distressed "over their groaning because of their oppressors and those who were shoving  them around." (Judges 2:18) Perhaps you have observed that the more some people see injustice, the more they become calloused to it.  Not so with Jehovah!  He has seen injustice in its entire scope for some 6,000 years, yet he has not wavered in his hatred for it. Rather, the Bible assures us that such things as "a false tongue," hands that are shedding innocent blood," and a "false witness  that launches forth lies" are detestable to him. -Proverbs 6:16-19.

Consider too, Jehovah' strong criticism of the unjust leaders in Israel.  "Is it not your business to know justice?"  He inspired his prophet to ask them.  After describing in graphic terms their abuse of power, Jehovah foretold the outcome for these corrupt men:  "They will call to Jehovah for aid, but he will not answer them, according as they committed badness in their dealings."  (Micah 3:1-4)  What an aversion Jehovah has to injustice!  Why, he himself has experienced it firsthand!  For thousands of years, Satan has been unjustly taunting him.  (Proverbs  27:11)  Furthermore, Jehovah was touched by the most horrendous acts of injustice when his Son, who "committed no sin," was executed as a criminal.  (1 Peter 2:22; Isaiah 53:9) Clearly, Jehovah is neither oblivious of nor indifferent to the plight of those who suffer injustice.

Yet, when we observe injustice-or when we ourselves become victims of unfair treatment-If is only natural for us to react strongly. We are made in God's image, and injustice is diametrically opposed to all that Jehovah stands for.  (Genesis 1:27) Why, then, does God allow injustice? 

Next time: "Is There Injustice With God" - The Issue of God's Sovereignty

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah