Righteousness

 
Thought For Today -  January 2
 Righteousness   -  By: Robert A. Searles
      We as Christians ought to hunger and thirst after righteousness.  “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness for they shall be filled.” Math 5:6
    Christ has imputed his righteousness to us if we are saved.  He made the first step toward us by offering his righteousness to all who will receive it.  Righteousness is simply being right  in our actions, and thoughts and attitudes toward God.  Our Lord and savior  was and still is  the only person who could measure up to this requirement.
      Righteousness has its’ rewards:  Righteousness delivers from death. Proverbs 11:4
By right thoughts  and actions toward God, we are not only delivered from spiritual death, but often we will prolong our life on earth because we will have avoided those things that can destroy us.
      “The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way.” Proverbs 11:5
When  our mind and our thoughts are in harmony and agreement with the mind of God, the Holy Spirit will direct our paths so that we follow a lifestyle that is good for us.
      “The righteousness  of the upright shall. Deliver them.” Proverbs 11:6
      Being right with God assures our  escape from the penalty of sin, and guarantees a sure place in Heaven because:  “Righteousness tendeth to life.” Proverbs 11:19
      The seed of the righteous shall be delivered.” Proverbs 11: 21
     Even our children and grandchildren, and future generations will reap the rewards of our righteousness, but on the other hand, they will also reap the penalties of our wickedness if we are wicked.
      “The desire of the righteous is only good.” Proverbs 11: 23
      When we are right with God, when our thoughts and actions toward God are  right; when we seek God with all our heart; then we can trust that the desires of out hearts are from God. When we delight in the Lord, he gives us the desires of our heart.
      “The righteous shall flourish as a branch” Proverbs 11:28 and “”The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he that winneth souls is wise. Proverbs 11;30.  A good tree grows tall and spreads its’ leaves and branches and provides shade.  It provides a nesting place for birds and other creatures.  It provides food and offers protection.  May we  each live and have our being as a tree of life in thee, oh Lord, and win others to thee.

Telehelp Publications Christian Literature Ministry 
                                                                       Psalm 26: 7