Justified All Around
A reflection that shows what’s been made clean.
📖 Devotional Credit: In Christ by E. Stanley Jones
📸 Photo Credit: Photo by Unsplash
E. Stanley Jones invites us to consider the order of Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 6:11: you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified. It’s not a theological oversight or an arbitrary arrangement. Rather, it offers a glimpse into how God’s work of redemption is seen—not only from Heaven’s viewpoint but from the earthbound reality of our daily lives.
Jones explains that while we may be justified before God by faith in Christ, this inner transaction remains invisible until it becomes outwardly manifest through washing (cleansing from sin) and sanctification (being set apart in newness of life). These visible evidences of change provide justification before men and even before ourselves. The work of grace is not hidden in the heavenlies alone—it takes shape in real time, witnessed by others and experienced personally.
In this light, justification is not merely a declaration from a distant throne but a reality confirmed in our being. We are justified all around—by the work Christ has done for us and the life He now lives through us. It’s not just legal standing; it’s observable transformation. The facts of our washing and sanctifying confirm the claim: we are indeed different.
✍🏼 Personalized Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture
I did not merely declare you righteous from afar—I came near and made you new.
You were washed by My mercy, not just in theory but in truth. The stains of sin no longer define you. You were sanctified by My indwelling presence. I have set you apart for Myself, not by your effort but by My Spirit who now lives in you. And yes, you are justified—before the Father, before others, and even within your own soul. The facts of your new life bear witness.
The world may question what cannot be seen, but when they behold the fruit of the Spirit in you—love, joy, peace, gentleness, faithfulness—they see what I have done. Your life testifies louder than your lips. This is no illusion of righteousness—it is reality. A life transformed. You are not who you once were.
Even when doubt creeps in and tries to accuse, the truth remains: I have washed you, I have sanctified you, and I have justified you. It is a complete work. You do not strive for approval; you live from My acceptance. Justification is no longer merely a word you believe—it is a life you now embody.
Let the facts of My indwelling life verify My finished work. Stand not only forgiven—but new.
Scripture references: 1 Corinthians 6:11, Titus 3:5, Romans 8:33, Galatians 2:20, John 15:16, Romans 6:4
🧼 Real-Life Analogy
It’s like walking out of a long, grime-covered shift and stepping straight into a hot shower. The dirt runs off, the steam rises, and as the water clears, you see your true reflection again. Then you put on fresh clothes, breathe deep, and feel clean—inside and out. That’s not just forgiveness. That’s transformation others can see, and you can feel.
🙏🏼 Prayer of Confidence
Father, thank You that I am not only declared righteous in Your sight but made new by Your Spirit. You didn’t stop at forgiveness—you cleansed me, set me apart, and made my life a living testimony of Your grace. I rejoice in the visible reality of Christ in me. Today, I walk in that all-round justification—not to prove myself, but to enjoy who I now am in You.