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October 30, 1998, Friday
What type of practice is the most profitable? How can one
profit by practice? How does one protect himself and his
family? Will one meet obstacles and objections to practice
a lifestyle that is profitable and protects his future?
John tells us that our practices in life are evidence of
the internal change that occurred in our hearts when we
believed God and turned to follow Him--- "In this the
children of God and the children of the devil can be
determined: Whoever does not practice righteousness
is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother"
(1John 3:10). The person that believes God understands
that his decision is a profitable decision and follows His
word: "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God,
and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for the
correction, instruction in righteousness" (2Tim 3:16).
Peter tells us that Noah protected his family by preaching
a Gospel of God's righteousness---"He did not spare the
ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a
preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on
the world of the ungodly" (2Pet 2:21). Noah preached to
warn the people (including his family, who did believe
Noah's preaching and lived) of impending doom if they
would not pursue a life of righteousness. By the preaching
of Noah, he was able to protect the ones that were close
and precious to him.
Undoubtedly Noah was ridiculed for his beliefs and his
conservative views. His family problably suffered much
persecution by those who did not appreciate Noah or his
preaching, but Jesus offers a promise to those who will
stand up for what is right in a society--"Blessed are
those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Mat 5:10). Take
heart if you suffer in your life's circumstance for doing
what God says and do not be troubled by what people
without God may say or do.
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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