For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith. Romans 1:17 NIV
By one account, "righteous" is used in the Bible at least 558 times. I'm not sure if that is an accurate count, but I know it's an important idea. First, to understand what righteousness is, it might be easier to look at what it is not, evil, wickedness, and immorality. It is the exact opposite, goodness, purity, and virtue–a way of describing God's character. It is important to us because we are created in his image; as such, we are to grow into that same character.
God's plan for humankind, fractured by Adam and Eve, did not sway God from his plan for us. It did not change the fact he created in his image, nor his desire for us to live righteously. To help us, he sent us a teacher, his only Son, the fully divine yet fully human Jesus. Through his gospel, we have the perfect example of how we can achieve righteousness–it became revealed. By Christ's selfless sacrifice, we are made pure. God also sends his Holy Spirit to guide us into his right paths.
Learning to walk in righteousness is a maturation process; like children, we first crawl, stand, take hesitant steps, and finally walk. Sometimes we may run, at others, slow to a shuffle, but always moving forward by faith.
Heavenly Father, thank you for your grace. In your love, you sent Jesus and the Holy Spirit to save and guide us into your right paths. Help us not to grow discouraged but to remain focused on our journey. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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