Bible Reading: 1 John 1:9
1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” This verse is describing God. It says that God is
faithful. That means we can rely on Him. It says God is forgiving. It also says that God is just.
What does it mean to be just? Just means being able to always make right decisions, always acting correctly, always judging fairly. Only God can be truly just.
God expects the same behavior from everyone. He expects each and every one of us to obey Him perfectly. When we fail to do so (and we all do) God has chosen the only appropriate punishment, the same punishment for all of us – death and eternal separation from God.
However, God isn’t only just, He is gracious. He is willing to forgive us for all of our disobedience. He has made a way – through Jesus’ death and resurrection – to save us from the punishment that awaits us. He leaves the final decision to each one of us individually to choose whether we want to receive God’s salvation or His punishment.
The Apostle Paul summed it up this way: “God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you and give relief to you who are troubled, and to us as well.” 2 Thessalonians 1:6 & 7a
Praise God for He justice & grace!
“Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!” Isaiah 30:18
Prayer: Heavenly Father, respect Your just nature and I’m grateful for your gracious forgiveness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.