Life’s true justice
“A man only begins to be a man when he ceases to whine and revile, and commences to search for the hidden justice which regulates his life.”
— James Allen
Reflection
Allen writes that a man only begins to be a man when he ceases to whine and revile, and learns to search for the hidden justice that rules life. In other words, maturity awakens when we stop blaming and start seeking understanding. Complaining is easy; it requires no wisdom, only frustration. But looking for the deeper order in events—the lessons, corrections, and opportunities—requires thought.
This doesn’t mean every hardship is fair or every wound is deserved. It means you choose to believe that God is able to bring good even from what others intend for harm. When you adopt that mindset, you stop asking, “Why is life against me?” and start asking, “What can I learn here? How should I respond?”
Whining keeps you stuck. It rehearses outrage without moving toward change. Searching for life’s true justice moves you into responsibility. You take ownership of your reactions, your future choices, and the story you tell yourself about what has happened. In doing so, you grow stronger rather than bitter.
Allen challenges us to step out of the posture of victimhood and into the dignity of seekers—people who trust that there is meaning to be found, even in difficulty, and who are willing to grow because of it.
And that’s worth thinking about.
— Vic Johnson
Putting It Into Practice
- Notice one situation you’ve been complaining about and ask instead, “What is one thing I can learn or do differently here?”
- Write down a hardship from your past and list at least one way it has grown or refined you.
- Limit how often you voice a complaint today and replace at least one with a statement of trust or responsibility.
One Question To Ponder
In the area where you complain most, what might life—or God—be trying to teach you?
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