Rediscovering the Power of Biblical Justice and Righteousness
“Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you.” (Psalm 89:14, ESV)
Introduction
In these turbulent times, America stands at a decisive juncture—marked by division, yearning for healing, and seeking a path forward. It is here that the Church must ground itself once more in the unchanging truths of Scripture. Psalm 89:14 asserts that righteousness and justice are not merely attributes of God but the very pillars supporting His throne. For those who follow Christ, understanding and living out these qualities is vital—not only for personal growth but for our collective restoration.
Understanding Righteousness and Justice in Scripture
Scripture consistently pairs righteousness and justice, weaving them together throughout both Old and New Testaments. In Isaiah 1:17, we’re called to “learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.” Here, justice is dynamic—marked by compassion and action on behalf of the vulnerable.
Righteousness goes beyond private morality. In the Hebrew Bible, “righteousness” (tsedaqah) means living rightly—with God, with others, and within community. Jesus, in Mark 12:30-31, sums up the law: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart… and love your neighbor as yourself.” Righteousness is inextricably linked to love and justice; it is God’s truth made visible in our lives.
Right or Righteous: Moving Beyond Mere Correctness
In our culture, being “right” often means winning arguments or having the last word. Yet, the call of the Bible goes much deeper. Being righteous is about aligning with God’s heart—even when it challenges us. The Pharisees in Jesus’ day frequently saw themselves as “right,” but Jesus pointed them to humility, mercy, and genuine connection (Mark 2:17).
True righteousness grows from humility—recognizing our limits and allowing our perspectives to be shaped by God’s Word. It’s not about being proven right, but about doing what’s right—especially for those in need.
Justice in Society: Our Moral and Civic Duty
The American ideal of justice is deeply rooted in biblical principles—liberty and justice for all. The Scriptures remind us, though, that justice is not only a government’s task; it’s a calling for every believer. Isaiah 58 warns about the emptiness of religious rituals without justice: “Is not this the fast that I choose… to loose the bonds of wickedness…?” (v. 6).
When believers live out justice, they mirror God’s character and help bring healing to their communities. This means standing for fairness, advocating for the oppressed, and choosing mercy over indifference.
The Church’s Mission: Healing Divisions
Our nation faces deep divisions—racial, religious, and political. The Church, called to be “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14), has a sacred duty in this pivotal hour. In the early church, unity overcame social and ethnic barriers (Ephesians 2:14-16).
Healing begins with the Church prioritizing unity and love above all else. It requires listening to different voices, repenting of collective failings, and praying for revival. The world is watching to see if Christians will choose the path of reconciliation and true justice.
Living It Out: Justice, Mercy, and Restoration in Action
Righteousness and justice are not just ideals—they’re daily choices. Isaiah 58 and 61 urge God’s people to “repair the breach,” to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, and set the oppressed free. Jesus lived this out—touching the untouchable, defending the rejected, and confronting injustice.
Today, this can mean mentoring youth, supporting just policies, volunteering, or simply treating every neighbor with dignity. Each act participates in God’s ongoing restoration.
A Call to Action: Seek, Pray, and Do What’s Right
Church, the moment is now. Let’s humble ourselves, pray for our land, and earnestly seek God (2 Chronicles 7:14). Let’s choose righteousness over ego, unity over division, and action over comfort. May we align with biblical truth, show radical love, and serve as agents of justice in a broken world.
Conclusion: Anticipating Revival and Renewal
God’s promise holds true: when His people walk in righteousness and justice, healing and renewal will come. Don’t lose heart in doing good—press on, knowing that God’s foundation is steady. As we pray, care, and act, may revival and restoration take root across America through God’s unfailing grace.
Minister A Francine Green
November 2025
afrancinegreen.com 