What does it mean to consider what is right? What Does It Mean to Consider What Is Right? A Topical Bible Entry 1. Understanding “Right” from a Scriptural Perspective The concept of doing what is “right” originates in the nature and character of the Creator. Scripture consistently presents the Almighty as perfectly holy and just. This understanding shapes how humans are called to distinguish right from wrong. Though moral intuition exists, Scripture illuminates the standard for righteousness more completely. Micah 6:8 succinctly shows the divine heartbeat of morality: “He has shown you, O man, what is good… to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Here, the instruction reflects an inward transformation and an outward demonstration of integrity. 2. The Basis of Moral Discernment A crucial element in considering what is right involves recognizing the existence of objective moral truth. Even from the earliest accounts in Genesis, the distinction between good and evil is evident. The Eden narrative (Genesis 2–3) highlights humanity’s responsibility to obey God and the consequences for neglecting that standard. The moral law stands at the core of God’s desire that people live in harmony with Him and one another. Romans 12:2 calls believers not to be “conformed to this world,” but to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This transformation equips individuals to test and approve what aligns with the will of the Creator. When the mind is renewed, moral discernment grows clearer. 3. The Role of the Conscience and the Holy Spirit Scripture describes the conscience as an inner witness that either accuses or excuses human behavior (Romans 2:15). However, the conscience can be influenced positively or negatively by one’s environment, cultural norms, and personal decisions. The Holy Spirit provides guidance that transcends human limitations. In John 16:13, we read, “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” This guidance helps believers discern moral questions that may seem complex. Through prayer, reliance on inspired Scripture, and attentive listening to the Spirit’s conviction, one can grow in wisdom to identify and practice what is right. 4. Scriptural Commands for Righteous Living Taking time to “consider” what is right implies more than a fleeting thought. It involves studying and meditating on biblical teachings that shape character. Examples include: • The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20): foundational ethical benchmarks. • The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3–12): a focus on humility, mercy, purity, and peace. • The “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22–23): qualities that evidence Spirit-led living. Such directives become practical markers by which one can gauge whether actions align with God’s revealed standards. 5. Trustworthy Scripture and Its Historical Reliability Confidence in these moral instructions is undergirded by the reliability of Scripture. Archaeological finds like the Dead Sea Scrolls confirm that ancient manuscripts of the Hebrew Bible have been meticulously preserved. The Tel Dan inscription, the Merneptah Stele, and other artifacts corroborate biblical accounts of historical figures and events, reinforcing that the biblical text stands on firm historical ground. If the Scriptures are trustworthy in historical and archaeological matters, their ethical mandates gain additional credibility. This is one reason that considering what is right must involve grounding one’s morals in the consistent teachings of the Bible. 6. Intellectual and Philosophical Insights on Right Conduct Considering what is right also invites reflection on the nature of moral absolutes. Philosophical arguments for objective morality note that moral truths—like justice and love—remain constant regardless of personal opinion. This aligns with the scriptural portrayal of God as the unchanging foundation of all righteousness. The moral law points to a Lawgiver who instills a universal sense of right and wrong in humanity. Furthermore, behavioral research often indicates that societies flourish when they uphold principles such as honesty, kindness, and integrity. These findings echo biblical commands: abiding by what is good fosters both personal well-being and communal harmony. 7. Practical Ways to Consider What Is Right a. Self-Examination Regularly pause to evaluate whether your thoughts, words, and actions align with biblical guidance. King David modeled this in Psalm 139:24, asking God to “see if there is any offensive way in me.” Humble self-reflection guards against the drift toward compromise. b. Meditation on Scripture Meditate on passages that outline moral principles. Joshua 1:8 states, “This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night.” By internalizing the wisdom of Scripture, believers develop a habitual awareness of God’s standards. c. Seeking Wise Counsel Proverbs 15:22 teaches that “plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Consulting trusted mentors, leaders, or friends grounded in biblical teaching can clarify moral questions and promote accountability. d. Acting in Line with God’s Character The final litmus test for right thinking is the alignment with the loving, just, and holy character of the Creator. Living this way honors God’s design for humanity, reflecting His righteousness in the world. 8. Promises and Consequences Throughout Scripture, those who commit to doing right are promised blessings such as peace of mind, spiritual growth, and deeper fellowship with God (Psalm 1:2–3). On the other hand, ignoring conscience and biblical truth leads to harmful consequences—not merely as punishment but as the natural outworking of rejecting God’s life-giving design (Galatians 6:7). 9. Conclusion: Living Out What Is Right To “consider what is right” is to approach moral questions with reverence for the Creator’s holiness and recognition of humanity’s responsibility. It involves acknowledging biblical truth as a sure foundation, consulting the Holy Spirit, and living in a way that benefits both individuals and communities. In sum, deciding on what is right requires heart, mind, and soul engagement. It means allowing Scripture to shape behavior, seeking wisdom in prayer, learning from those with godly insight, and submitting to the Spirit’s guidance daily. Through this dynamic process, believers fulfill their created purpose: to glorify God by reflecting His righteousness in every aspect of life. |
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