The Work of Justice

Alma told his son Corianton that God’s plan of redemption could only function “on conditions of repentance of men [and women] in this probationary state.” He said that otherwise, mercy would “destroy the work of justice” (Alma 42:13). What did he mean by that? I think he meant simply that “God will force no man to heav’n” (“Know This That Every Soul Is Free,” Hymns, 240). It wouldn’t be just, it wouldn’t be fair to give us something we don’t want, something we don’t value. So He offers us the transformative power of salvation, but as a gift, not as an obligation.

Elder Patrick Kearon explained Alma’s statement in these words: “In order for the mercy of Jesus Christ to be able to come into play in our lives, we must turn back to Him.” He added, “Fundamentally implicit in all of [Jesus’s] teachings to live on a higher plane of moral conduct is a call to personal progression, to transformative faith in Christ, to a mighty change of heart. (“God’s Intent Is to Bring You Home,” General Conference, April 2024, see footnote 14).

So God offers us the chance to become more than we are, but it is up to us to receive it. The work of mercy is to exalt us, and the work of justice includes honoring our agency. God can do both, but only if we are willing to let Him transform us.

After explaining this principle to his son, Alma counseled him:

Let the justice of God, and his mercy, and his long-suffering have full sway in your heart; and let it bring you down to the dust in humility.

Alma 42:30

Justice, mercy, and long-suffering are all evidences of God’s love. When we understand that all three are for our benefit, we are humbled and grateful for such a loving Father in Heaven.

Today, I will remember that God will not be unjust, that He will only transform me if I am willing to be transformed. I will choose to humble myself, so that God’s work of justice and mercy can take effect in my life.