What are the criteria for a good leader? One might easily answer that a good leader is one who is virtuous, puts the people first, is modest, and is respected by neighboring countries. We will now see that the psalmist adds one more criterion for a good leader, which is the realization that he is God's messenger invited to realize His will through the governance that takes place.

This is what appears in our reading today. In his prayer, the psalmist asks God to grant the king righteousness and justice in his rule. Look closely at verses 1-2, it seems that the justice that the king executes is justice based on God's law and justice alone. In addition, when he rules justly and sides with the oppressed, he has actually treated God's people well. The people he ruled did not belong to the king, but to God who entrusted them to him to rule well.

Another quality expected of this king is his compassion for the poor, who are often invisible and always the victims. The downtrodden are the ones who need the king's help the most. He is also the protector of his people against attacks that may occur from outside. If the king does what God wants then his reign will expand, not because of his greatness but God's provision alone.

God's word today should be a reminder for all of us in positioning and even choosing the leaders of our country. As for the leaders, this verse is a guide to choose and work the government according to His will. A leader is one who is willing to fight to maintain his integrity, which means directing his life and leadership to God's will alone. Let us pray that the leaders of our nation can lead with integrity and the fear of God.