“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
The third in the series is just. The literal translation means righteous, observing divine laws.
The key word in that sentence is divine laws. Not observing laws, but the keeping of the divine law.
When Jesus was asked about the most important law He said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And, to love your neighbor as yourself.”
God’s divine law is about love. Period. His law contains grace and mercy which leads people to love. If we are using God’s righteousness or justice for anything else we are wrong.
So, give God a chance to think justly in your mind. Judge things with an eye toward the restoration of people in the long run.
In the short term, people may turn aside, rebuke you, or even cause you harm; but if you have delivered God’s message with an eye toward restoration and redemption you have done your service to Him.
God will continue to bless us with an abundance of revelation and love if we will simply serve His needs in every person’s life. His needs, not your preferences. God is abundantly merciful—you and I are living proof.
Justly,
Pastor Brent