Psalm 11:7

For the LORD is righteous; He loves justice. The upright will see His face.

Study Bible

For the LORD is righteous;
This phrase emphasizes the inherent righteousness of God, a central theme throughout the Bible. God's righteousness is His moral perfection and His commitment to justice and truth. In the Old Testament, God's righteousness is often linked to His covenant faithfulness (Deuteronomy 32:4). The righteousness of God is a standard against which human actions are measured, and it is through His righteousness that He judges the world (Psalm 9:8). This righteousness is also a source of comfort for believers, as it assures them of God's just nature and His ultimate control over the moral order of the universe.

He loves justice.
God's love for justice is a reflection of His righteous character. Justice in the biblical sense involves fairness, equity, and the protection of the vulnerable (Isaiah 61:8). Throughout the scriptures, God is portrayed as a defender of the oppressed and a judge who will right all wrongs (Psalm 103:6). This love for justice is not merely a passive attribute but an active pursuit, as seen in His commands to His people to act justly (Micah 6:8). The prophetic literature often calls Israel back to justice, highlighting its importance in God's eyes (Amos 5:24).

The upright will see His face.
Seeing God's face is a metaphor for experiencing His presence and favor. In biblical times, to see the face of a king was a great honor and indicated a special relationship (Esther 1:14). Similarly, seeing God's face signifies a close relationship with Him and His approval (Psalm 17:15). This promise is eschatological, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament where believers are promised to see God face to face in eternity (Revelation 22:4). The "upright" refers to those who live in accordance with God's will, aligning their lives with His righteousness and justice. This phrase underscores the hope and reward for those who remain faithful to God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal existence and faithfulness. In this verse, He is described as righteous and just.

2. The Upright
Those who live in accordance with God's will and righteousness. They are promised the blessing of seeing God's face.

3. David (implied)
Traditionally attributed as the author of this Psalm, David often wrote about his trust in God's justice amidst adversity.

Teaching Points

God's Righteousness and Justice
God's nature is inherently righteous and just. Believers can trust that His actions and judgments are always fair and true.

The Love of Justice
As God loves justice, His followers are called to pursue justice in their own lives, reflecting His character in their actions and decisions.

The Promise of Divine Encounter
The promise that the upright will see God's face is a profound assurance of intimate relationship and eternal fellowship with Him.

Living Uprightly
To be counted among the upright, believers must strive to live according to God's standards, seeking His guidance and strength to do so.

Hope in Adversity
In times of trouble, believers can find hope in God's righteousness and the promise of His presence, knowing that He sees and rewards the upright.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's righteousness and love for justice impact your view of current events and societal issues?

2. In what ways can you pursue justice in your daily life, reflecting God's character to those around you?

3. What does it mean to you personally to "see His face," and how does this promise influence your spiritual walk?

4. How can the assurance of God's justice and righteousness provide comfort during times of personal adversity or injustice?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's presence in a profound way. How did that encounter encourage you to live more uprightly?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 17:15
This verse also speaks of seeing God's face, emphasizing the hope and satisfaction found in God's presence.

Matthew 5:8
Jesus teaches that the pure in heart will see God, connecting the idea of righteousness and purity with the promise of divine encounter.

1 John 3:2
This passage speaks of the future revelation of seeing God as He is, reinforcing the hope of the upright in seeing God's face.