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September 22, 1998, Tuesday
What does it take to be a righteous person? Can a person
declare his own righteousness? Is there a reward if you
are a righteous person? Have you ever wanted to be cleared
or vindicated of any accusations against you?
Paul gives us a simple answer how to be a righteous person.
"But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has
been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets
testify. This righteousness from God comes through
faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no
difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory
of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the
redemption that came by Christ Jesus" (Rom 3:21-24).
The Psalmist declared his own righteousness, but he knew
that it came from his Savior. His praise to God was for
providing a righteous way and the benefits of following
that lifestyle: "The LORD has dealt with me according to
my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands
He has rewarded me. For I have kept the ways of the LORD;
I have not done evil by turning from my God" (Psa 18:20-21).
Many times we wonder at the definition of righteousness
and its mystery. Paul gave Timothy this explanation:
"Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great:
He appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit,
was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was
believed by men, and was taken up in glory" (1 Tim 3:16).
We are vindicated by Him when we faithfully follow Him.
Let us remember who is the God that is our righteousness.
God's name is Jehová Tsidkenu. He is the God that clothes
us with His righteousness. He is the God that puts His truth,
humility, and kindness in our spirit. The Psalmist expressed
his joy and gratitude for a clear conscience: "I will praise
You as long as I live, and in Your Name I will lift up my
hands" (Psa 63:4). Lift your hands to Him and Praise Him
for the fact that He is the God that is Our Righteousness!
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