Isaiah 33:22

NASB	NLT	VOICE
22 For the Lord is our judge, The Lord is our lawgiver, The lord is our king; He will save us –	22 For the Lord is our judge, our lawgiver, and our king. He will care for us and save us.	22 For the Eternal One is our Judge; He has prescribed our laws; He rules over us, and he is the One who will save us.

God’s Threefold Authority

In the context of Isaiah, the Israelites were often judged by earthly rulers. This verse reminded them, and reminds us, that God is the supreme Judge. The role of a judge in ancient Israel was not only to decide legal matters but also maintain social order and justice. God is the source of divine law. The term “lawgiver” connects to the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, which contains the laws given Israel. The psalmist in Psalm 19:7 says that the law of God is perfect, reviving the soul. In historical context, Israel had earthly kings, but this verse shows that God is the ultimate king. In the immediate context, this verse speaks to the Israelites being delivered from the threats of Assyria. It also foreshadows the ultimate salvation found in Jesus. 

God’s Justice in a World a Injustice

We need to live with confidence and peace, knowing that God is in control and will ultimately deliver His people from all forms of oppression and danger. This verse speaks powerfully to the chaos, inequity, and corruption we have in today’s culture. We’re seeing people being taken away from their families, help for people being stripped away, resources being taken from people in need, and the cost of living skyrocketing beyond reasonable means. This world feels destined for doom and failure. Now, we can rest knowing that God is going to rescue us. However – don’t stop there. Don’t stop at just knowing God will do this, but work to do his will that helps this happen. We don’t know the second coming will return, but we are called to share God with all parts of ourselves and honor him above everything. We are taught to care for his creation, which includes people like you and me. It’s sharing our surplus to help meet the needs of others. It’s speaking up to our legislators and leaders when certain voices are being silenced. It’s protesting the acts of injustice that strips away the marginalized’s right to life. We must remember that God operates out of love and compassion. When leaders fail to uphold compassion and equity, we are called to step in – not with condemnation, but with redemptive action. It’s our time to be the hands and feet of God and help work to make the world the Kingdom of God he calls it to be. 

Reflection Questions

1. What does it mean to you that God is our judge, lawgiver, and king?
2. How are living out his justice today?
3. Where can you speak up to reflect God’s kingdom values?

Call to Action

Choose one cause that aligns with God’s heart (poverty, racism, displacement, injustice) and work with them to donate, volunteer, write to your representative, or raise awareness.

Next slice of manna: Manna for the Mind #250