JUSTIFICATION 2

            There is another type of justification that exists. It’s when someone tries to justify his or her actions with a statement or statements as if they are seeking another’s approval of what they are either saying or doing.  Here’s an example: Joe says to Bill, “I’m thinking of cheating on my wife.” Bill replies, “Why would you want to do that?” To which Joe answers, “Bill, EVERYONE is doing it.” 

            Commentary: This situation can arise at any time for any person, male or female, Christian or non-Christian. In this case Joe is probably already planning to cheat, and may even have someone in mind and is just sending out a feeler to his friend Bill to see his reaction. When Bill’s reaction is less than supportive Joe resorts to justifying his actions with a general societal thought which is an exaggeration. There is no way Joe can know if EVERY single person cheats. To say people are prone to cheating to various degrees is more than likely a more correct statement.

            If you’re bound and determined to sin, please don’t bother to make lame excuses that you see as justification to people. It makes you look bad and insults the recipients who hear it.

            Now that’s a pretty severe example, so how about this: Person A is highly judgmental towards Person B. Person B says, “Why are you so judgmental towards me?” Person A justifies their actions by saying, “If you wouldn’t do those type of things I wouldn’t need to be so judgmental.” 

            Commentary: Person A is blaming Person B’s behavior for their being judgmental as if they have no control over their own actions.  As believers in Christ we truly have NO good reason to judge others. God judges, we represent God with Christ-like behavior. Frankly, we shouldn’t have to justify anything we say or do. We either are thoughtless with our comments or actions, or we aren’t. There is no valid justification for ugly talk and if you think there is then you may want to rethink that. 

We are ambassadors for Christ, in that we represent the Lord wherever we go. Don’t think people aren’t watching, because they most certainly are. And when they find out you’re a Christian, they are ready to point out anything you say or do that they feel is out of order (as if they would know). Focus on Christ and His words and actions and do your best to replicate it with your own behavior. Let others see Jesus in you. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing. 

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries