Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’ – Matthew 25:41
Left Handed Blessings
As believers, we must understand that being on the left can symbolize a multitude of meanings in the scripture. In certain instances, being left-handed is seen in a more positive light, demonstrating how God can bless us in ways that differ from the norms of society. We can appreciate how God uses each of us uniquely, regardless of whether we are right-handed or left-handed. God’s special touch can be found in how we serve, how we pray, and how we care for others with the compassionate hearts that we’re given. The left can signify the diverse paths that God lays before us, illustrating how all people can contribute to the kingdom in their own way.
Judges 3:15
The Israelites cried out to the Lord, and he gave them a deliverer, Ehud, a left-handed man, the son of Gera the Benjamite. The Israelites sent him with tribute to Eglon king of Moab. – Judges 3:15
2 Samuel 20:16
But a wise woman called from the city, “Listen! Listen! Tell Joab to come here so I can speak to him.” – 2 Samuel 20:16
Matthew 5:39
But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. – Matthew 5:39
Ecclesiastes 10:2
The heart of the wise inclines to the right, but the heart of the fool to the left. – Ecclesiastes 10:2
Mark 3:1
Another time Jesus went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. – Mark 3:1
Left versus Right
Throughout scripture, there is a striking emphasis on the distinctions between the left and the right. We can see that the Bible often references the right hand as a place of power, blessing, and authority, while the left may be perceived differently. Understanding this contrast helps us appreciate the teachings that show how we are called to align ourselves with God’s will. Being on the left does not mean being cast aside; it encourages us to find our role and place in His grand design. The left can symbolize accessing God’s grace, even in challenging circumstances.
Matthew 25:33
He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. – Matthew 25:33
Luke 22:69
But from now on, the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the mighty God. – Luke 22:69
Mark 10:37
They replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.” – Mark 10:37
Psalm 110:1
The Lord says to my lord: “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.” – Psalm 110:1
Exodus 17:11
As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. – Exodus 17:11
God’s Judgment of the Left
The idea of being judged based on whether we stand on the left side or the right side is a powerful image in the Bible. It reminds us of the ultimate accountability we have to God for our actions. We must strive to live in a way that reflects God’s love and grace, showing kindness and humility. This section serves as a reminder that while God’s judgment is real, His grace is greater than any mistakes we might make. In reflecting on the left, we recognize the need for repentance and the hope of forgiveness.
Matthew 25:41
Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’ – Matthew 25:41
Matthew 25:45
He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ – Matthew 25:45
Isaiah 47:15
All the counsel you have received has only worn you out! Let your astrologers come forward, those stargazers who make predictions month by month; let them save you from what is coming upon you. – Isaiah 47:15
Matthew 12:34
You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. – Matthew 12:34
Genesis 4:7
If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” – Genesis 4:7
God’s Presence on the Left
We can find comfort in knowing that even if we feel like we are on the left, God is still with us. His love and support extend to all places, and He invites us to draw nearer to Him, even when we feel not so close. The beauty of faith is that it is not confined to one side. He is present not just on the right side but also walks beside us, encouraging us to triumph over our struggles. When we open our hearts, we allow God to dwell with us, even if we find ourselves feeling left out.
Psalm 139:10
Even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. – Psalm 139:10
Matthew 28:20
And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. – Matthew 28:20
Isaiah 43:2
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. – Isaiah 43:2
Proverbs 18:24
One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. – Proverbs 18:24
Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10
Duality of the Left and Right
In recognizing the duality of left and right, we see that God’s kingdom is inclusive of all. Each of us plays a role and offers a different perspective, whether it be from the left or from the right. This encourages us to embrace diversity as a reflection of God’s creative spirit. Rather than placing value on one side more than the other, we should appreciate how both are vital to the body of Christ. Each person serves a purpose, and together we can support and uplift one another as a unified body of believers.
1 Corinthians 12:12
Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. – 1 Corinthians 12:12
Romans 12:4
For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, – Romans 12:4
Philippians 2:5
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: – Philippians 2:5
Galatians 3:28
There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. – Galatians 3:28
Acts 10:34
Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism – Acts 10:34
Encouragement for the Left
It is essential to offer each other hope regardless of what side we may find ourselves. Being on the left, whether spiritually or metaphorically, does not diminish our worth in God’s eyes. We can encourage each other to rise up, strengthen our faith, and remind ourselves that God calls us to fulfill His purpose even from unexpected places. We must shield each other in love and remind ourselves of the peace we can find in our faith. God uses our unique journeys, including those on the left, to bless and inspire others.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Hebrews 10:24-25
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:24-25
Galatians 6:2
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ. – Galatians 6:2
Romans 15:5
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had. – Romans 15:5
Philippians 4:13
I can do all this through him who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:13
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the concept of the left, we see how God recognizes and cherishes each person, regardless of where they may stand. The scripture reminds us that left or right, all of us are valuable in God’s eyes. We encourage one another to embrace our differences and find unity in Christ. The left symbolizes not just separation but a unique path filled with potential to serve and showcase God’s love to others.
Many of us may feel lost or overlooked at times, but it is important to know that we have a place in God’s great design. He calls us to rise up, reflect His character, and support each other through life’s ups and downs. Let’s walk together in faith, uplifting one another as we navigate the journey set before us.
If you want to explore more about scripture related to the left, check out the wonderful collection of bible verses about the left. You can also find inspiration in many other areas of the Word by visiting Bible Repository.