June 19

For He stands at the right hand of the needy one, to save him from the condemners of his soul. — Ps 109:31 BSB

How comforting it is to have a friend to stand by us when we are in trouble. Such a friend is Jesus. In our time of need, He comes as a friend to stand by the side of the poor soul, condemned by guilt and accusations. But He is more than a friend—He stands as a Surety and Deliverer. It’s as though He enters the courtroom, where the prisoner stands accused, and steps forward as their surety and bondsman. He brings forth the proof of the debt being paid, signed and sealed with His own blood, and presents it to the court, claiming the acquittal of the prisoner at His right hand. He stands there so the prisoner may be freely pardoned and completely justified from all accusations that “condemn his soul.” O, what a sweet standing! What a blessed appearance!

Unbelief, the workings of a wicked heart, and the accusations of the enemy rise up to condemn us, but Christ Jesus, our Mediator, stands at the right hand of the poor and brings forth His own righteousness. Are we weighed down by unbelief? He gives faith. Are we sinking into despair? He breathes hope. Are we overwhelmed with guilt, unable to approach God because of temptation? He lifts the bowed-down soul, and as we look up, instead of wrath, we see the Father’s face shining with mercy and love, because the Surety is “standing at the right hand of the poor.”