As for me, I will be vindicated and will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness. (Ps. 17:15)

Like John Wesley in his day, we should be moved by inequities in our modern justice system. Our social holiness requires us not only to respond, but also to proactively find solutions for our broken system. Recently, a person doing life in prison was released due to the advances in DNA testing. When asked how he felt about being home, the apology by the local district attorney, and the warm welcome he received from family and friends, he responded, “I feel vindicated.”

When he penned this psalm, David used a similar word to describe how he wanted God to give proof of his justification and clear him from blame. Like David, we all prefer not to have to deal with enemies who only want to destroy us, and we long for the day when we can be rescued from trouble. Our God delights to see his children dependent on him and completely free from any potential bondage.

Much like the defense attorney who was determined to get the case retried, God positions himself as an advocate speaking up on your behalf until you are completely free. Even if you feel more could be done on this side of heaven, may you have confidence that vindication is coming one way or another.

Instead of trying to vindicate yourself, let God be your advocate.

Santes Beatty is campus pastor of Mosaic Midtown Church in Detroit, MI.

© 2019 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.