I was thinking about those times when I would hear people say, “the end justifies the means.” Meaning that if a goal is morally important enough, any method of getting it is acceptable. I believe it was used by individuals to justify why they did what they did. Especially if they used unconventional ways to achieve their desired results.
In Genesis 27, we read the story of Jacob and Esau. Jacob deceives his father Isaac to receive his brother Esau’s birthright blessing. Jacob uses lies and pretends to be Esau. He did this to receive the blessing. He and his mother Rebekah believed it was crucial for Jacob’s future. They also believed it was important for the lineage of their descendants.
An outcome that the perceived to be a good outcome lead to actions that were morally questionable. This illustrates the idea that a perceived good outcome justifies their actions.
Have you ever been in a situation where you were sure your actions were acceptable? Was it in order to achieve a desired outcome? An outcome that was either positive for you, or for someone you care about?
I remember when I was going through my divorce thinking several times that the end justified the means. He hurt me and our children. He left, never coming home. Telling me to do what I needed to do in spite of that.
My family encouraged me to watch out for myself and my two children. It is, of course, the right thing to do. But, at what cost? To what extent?
He didn’t come back to get his things. Do I throw them away? He didn’t get an attorney. Do I take advantage of that?
Scripture reminds us that God is not just a God of ends, but also of means.
Proverbs 11:20 says,
“The Lord detests those with crooked hearts, but he delights in those whose ways are blameless.”
Our actions, not just our intentions, matter to God.
The world can sometimes prioritize outcomes over ethics, integrity, or compassion. As Christians, we are called to a different standard. This standard prioritizes integrity, honesty, and compassion in all aspects of life.
Examples of this is seen in politics, business, media, social media, and sometimes in relationships.
Politicians often prioritize winning elections or passing legislation over ethical considerations. They sometimes use manipulative tactics or compromise values to achieve their goals.
Companies may prioritize profits over people, engaging in exploitative practices to maximize gains.
Sensationalism and clickbait headlines can prioritize attracting viewers or readers over factual accuracy or fairness.
Online echo chambers and algorithms can over emphasize divisive rhetoric or misinformation, prioritizing engagement over truth or civility.
Some individuals may manipulate or coerce others to achieve their desires. They prioritize their own interests over others’ well-being.
When we prioritize the end over the means, we risk:
- Compromising our values and witness
- Failing to represent God’s character accurately
- Damaging relationships and trust
Let’s strive to honor God in both our goals and our methods. We should trust that his ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).
The end doesn’t justify the means of how we get to the Revelation, in our life story.
Our lives are part of a larger story – one that unfolds according to God’s plan. Our individual stories are woven into the grand narrative of God’s redemption. Our choices and actions contribute to the plot.
Each of our life stories are unique, with its own struggles, triumphs, and relationships. To live it well, we must seek God’s guidance to understand our role in His story. His purpose for our lives.
Reflect on your passions, talents, and experiences to discover how God is calling you to serve. Sit with Him in the quiet and let Him lead you.
We should be intentional in making choices that align with God’s values, such as love, forgiveness, and compassion. God told us we will face troubles and challenges. Don’t shy away from them. Instead, use them as opportunities for growth, learning and dependence on Him.
The ultimate revelation of your life story is eternal life with God. This promise gives your story purpose and hope.
With love and joy,
Laura