Bible Thoughts

August 11, 2002

The word "right" is interesting when we take the time to examine and consider its meaning. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word means "sure of being straight"(ISBE). The New Testament word(Greek), is described with such words as even, just, righteous, straight, upright(ISBE). The householder was hiring laborers for his vineyard(Matthew 20:1). He assured them that he would treat them fairly and make their wages right. The householder kept his word and used his substance to give a just wage to his laborers. He did right even though some were unhappy with their pay. It is not easy to please everyone; but it is right to treat people fairly and justly. Dedicated disciple do what is right!

"And why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?"(Luke 12:57).

The people whom Jesus is addressing in this passage could "interpret" the physical signs that were around them. They could see the clouds and anticipate a shower. They could feel the hot winds and know "scorching heat," but they did not know how to interpret the events that were taking place in the spiritual realm. The people of the Lord's day should have been aware of what was happening, but they ignored that which affected their souls. How like those of today. Men can forecast the weather(with amazing accuracy), they can speak of the future in economic values, and they can speak with much authority about the climate of politics. Yet, they know little about spiritual matters. Each person needs to judge for oneself what is right and what is wrong in the light of God's word. The ability to so judge takes study and application of the principles of morality and justice found therein. Righteous people do what is right!

you rather than unto God, judge ye"(Acts 4:19).

The religious leaders in the days of the apostles were powerful forces. They were able to control the multitudes of that day through the Sanhedrin Council. Peter and John were seen as threats to their power. Rather than accept the truth taught by the gospel preacher of that day, they threatened them and charged them not to preach or speak in the "name of Jesus"(v. 4). The men of God refused to buckle under their dictates stating that they must teach what is right and follow the commands of Jesus Christ. When the Council threatened them, they continued speaking the truths from Jehovah. They did what was right!

"...wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?"(Acts 13:10).

Elymas the sorcerer withstood the teachings of Barnabas and Saul. This evil man did not want the proconsul, Sergius Paulus to hear the truth. How like false teachers of today. They do not want people to hear and understand the right ways of God. They seek, in many ways, to hinder the teaching of truth. Paul rebuked the false teacher in a strong message, telling Barjesus that he was "full of all guile and all villany...son of the devil...enemy of righteousness" and that his words and actions would "pervert the right ways of the Lord"(Acts 13:8-10). The consequence of his false teaching was to be struck blind. It is right to follow the truth and oppose those who pervert the scriptures!

right"(Ephesians 6:1).

It is right for young people to honor and respect their parents. When this happens, it is not difficult to understand the principle that Paul put forth in this passage. Children who respect their parents will be willing to follow the directions of those parents. Parents who respect their children will do right by them, setting a proper example and encouraging their offspring at every opportunity. When a child is reared in an atmosphere that is controlled by right attitudes and actions, the lessons will be remembered for the rest of his/her life. Young people, parents know more than you do; they care deeply for you; they want you to do what is good; they desire that you cultivate proper habits and attitudes. Why? Paul, an inspired man, said that it was right!

Balaam, a man who attempted to curse the people of God, forsook the right because he "loved the hire of wrong-doing." His dumb donkey was smarter than he was and warned him of his transgression. Others have been enticed with the wealth of the world to go astray from the ways of righteousness. Money is a strong influence on a large portion of society. It is right to have funds to pay bills, to contribute to the Lord, and to ease the sufferings of this life. It is not right to use one's earnings in the pursuit of that which is contrary to the Lord's will. The "love of money is a root of all kinds of evil" is not to be ignored. The upright person will use his knowledge of God's word to use his blessings in a righteous and profitable manner. The god of wealth has captured many a soul, even those who are trying to serve God. It is not wrong to have money; it is right to use what one has in a way that pleases God and strengthens the individual.

Do you realize that pregnant pigs have more rights than unborn babies? A group in Florida is pushing for a law that protects pregnant pigs! We live in a society that wants to outlaw putting pregnant pigs in a cage, but does not hesitate to kill unborn babies(they call it abortion). Pigs have more rights than babies in the eyes of some!

The activity in which you choose to engage: Does it make you a better person?...Does it increase your righteous influence?...Does it increase your spirituality?...Does it enlarge your appreciation of God's gifts?...Would you want others to engage in the same activity?