Finding Peace, Justice, and Joy in What God Really Wants
If you’ve ever wondered what God is really like or what he wants for people, you’re not alone. Lots of us grow up thinking God’s kingdom is all about following rules or avoiding certain things (“meat and drink,” as Romans puts it). But the Bible paints a much deeper and more hopeful picture—one that’s really important for all of us to understand.
God’s Kingdom: More Than Rules
Romans 14:17 tells us, “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” In everyday language, that means God’s ultimate goal for us isn’t just about what we do or don’t eat, or any other outward rule. Instead, his kingdom is about living rightly, being at peace with others, and having deep joy that comes from God’s own Spirit.
Why Does This Matter?
Understanding God’s nature matters because it changes how we see ourselves, how we treat others, and what we aim for in life. If we think God is all about strict rules, we’ll likely become judgmental, anxious, or even discouraged. But when we see that God is all about justice, fairness, kindness, and joy, it gives us a new kind of freedom and responsibility.
What Is God’s Nature?
The Bible describes God as being built on a foundation of “righteousness and justice” (Psalm 89:14). That means everything God does is morally right and perfectly fair. But it doesn’t stop there—he’s also overflowing with steadfast love and faithfulness.
• Righteousness means doing what is right and caring for others in a way that’s fair and honest.
• Justice is about making sure everyone, especially the vulnerable, gets treated fairly—no favoritism, no oppression.
• Steadfast Love is God’s unwavering kindness and commitment to people.
• Faithfulness means God keeps his promises and never gives up on us.
How Does This Affect Us?
If God is like this, he wants us to reflect those qualities, too. That’s why, in the Bible, the prophets say that what really heals a broken world is justice and righteousness—not violence, hate, or cheating. When we care for people in need, stand up for what’s right, and treat others with fairness, we’re carrying out God’s will on earth.
The Words Behind the Concepts
In the original Hebrew of the Bible, words like “mishpat” (justice) and “tzedek/tzedakah” (righteousness/charity) are joined together to show they belong side by side. Justice means fairness in how society is run and how laws are enforced, especially for the weak. Righteousness goes beyond that—it’s about treating people kindly, helping those in need, and living out goodness every day.
It’s Not About Perfection—It’s About Relationship
God’s nature is gentle and patient with us, even when we’re not perfect. He cares about our hearts, our growth, and how we love others. Christ’s example shows us how to give up our own wants for the sake of others, just as he gave up his life for humanity.
In short, understanding God’s nature isn’t just a “religious” thing—it’s the key to living a life filled with real peace, deep joy, and true purpose. It helps us become better people, kinder neighbors, and more hopeful about the world.
So when you think about God and his kingdom, remember: it’s all about righteousness, peace, and joy—not just rules, but a way of life that brings out the best in us and in the world around us.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 