Proverbs 21:15 “The exercise of justice is joy for the righteous, But is terror to the workers of iniquity.”

COURTROOM

When I hear the word “justice” I immediately think of a courtroom. It is there that justice in the legal system is supposed to come down. Those who have done no wrong (the righteous) do not fear the outcome. But those who are guilty (the workers of iniquity) are scared to death. At least that is the way it is supposed to work. Sometimes our court system makes a mistake and an innocent person is found guilty or a guilty person is found innocent. This is NOT the case, however, in God’s courtroom.

In God’s courtroom we are all guilty – until we discover the One who can absolve our guilt. Jesus steps in and says, “Yes Judge, they are guilty, but I am taking their punishment. I will be declared guilty in their place.” Wow!

TEACHING MOMENT

Have you “caught” your child in the commission of a crime? You know what I mean. They deliberately lied to you. Or they hit their little sister or brother. Or they stole something from school. There is NO doubt they are guilty. Why not use this opportunity to model Jesus to them. Explain to them that you know they are guilty. Describe to them the discipline they deserve. But instead of dishing out the discipline, forgive them. Better yet, take their discipline for them.

Now, I know what you are thinking. “Carl, my child would love that, and they would expect that every time.” I know that. You can’t do this every time and you can’t do it with every child. But the Holy Spirit will tell you when it is appropriate to use this illustration. What a great way for them to get a glimpse of what the Savior has done and continues to for them.

Everyday I know I deserve to be terrorized by the idea of justice, but because all my guilt has been taken away, I can live in joy knowing that I have been declared righteous. How about you?