Just /jəst/

With so much injustice happening the world-over, how are we to ‘think on’ things that are just?

It’s a four-letter word we use as an adjective, usually to to describe that something is “fitting” or “appropriate.” Some Bible translations render today’s word as “right” or “fair.” Paul urges his hearers to think on things that are just, as a way to guard their minds from anxiety and fear. In Biblical terms, “just” means 

What duty demands; that which is approved by, or acceptable to, God.

This word is used in Romans 7:12 to describe God’s commandments and law. A person who does that which duty requires (according to God’s laws) would be considered a just, or righteous, person. Colossians 4:1 uses the same word to instruct masters to give their servants what is due to them.

Colossians 1:10 tells us that living a life that pleases God (just) involves fruitfulness in good works and growing in our knowledge of Him. So, to think on that which is acceptable to Him might mean several things:

• Reflecting on the ways we’ve observed someone fulfill the commandments Jesus reiterated: loving God and loving others as ourselves.
• Noting good works we observe in others, as evidence of their fruitfulness.
• Meditating on God’s Word and studying it as a means to know Him better.

Thinking on something honorable helped supplant the cynical pessimism I carry throughout the day; likewise, thinking on that which is just does much the same.

Pessimist: Some of the people I love may never surrender to Jesus; I don’t see even the slightest softening of their hearts and I fear for their eternity.
Optimist: Even if they don’t, God’s Word reminds me that He is just and true (Revelation 15:3). 

[Tweet “Thinking on things that are just may not change the circumstances, but trains our minds in His ways. #thinkonthesethings #write31days”]

Can you share an example of something just for us to think on?

This post is part of a 31 day series entitled “Think on these things: Learning optimism.” For a full catalog of all the posts, visit the first page in the series by clicking here.