July 5, 2022

Where do we get our “righteousness?” It comes only from the “Righteous One,” Yahweh; Righteousness is a state of being, defined only by the God of all creation. Paul tells us it is received by faith (likewise did Abraham receive righteousness, gen 15:6); and not of works [we can offer nothing of our own self or our works/deeds/efforts, etc.], only faith in the finished work of Yeshua at Calvary “clothes us in righteousness.”

”But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness,” rom 4:5 nkjv

The Psalmist tells us:

“But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself him who is godly; The Lord will hear when I call to Him.” ps 4:3 nkjv

Do you and I believe “the LORD will hear when we call Him?” That is a profound thought, that the Creator of the Universe has promised to hear our cries for help in time of need.

“Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.” ps 50:15 nkjv Psalms Chapter 4 goes on to say:

“Be angry, and do not sin. Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still. Selah” ps 4:4 nkjv

“Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, And put your trust in the Lord.” ps 4:5 nkjv

How does one “offer the sacrifices of righteousness?” I have given considerable thought to this question. One of the ways, I think, is to shun evil, resist temptations, prefer Yahweh’s way more than that of others, or even our own ways... that is, if they conflict with what the Word of Yahweh says. Along these lines, the Bible tells us:

“So Samuel said: “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams.” 1Sam 15:22 nkjv

Faithful followers of the Word of Yahweh will not always find smooth sailing without storms, and rose gardens without thorns. Especially when dealing with other people… with much restraint, we often must remember the words, “be angry and sin not.” Also, because we have a responsibility to be good “caretakers” of our thoughts and actions, making sure they are acceptable to our Master Yahweh, we must give up some of the options we have that can be quite attractive and often profitable… In fact, our choices to obey may cause us discomfort and suffering. I expect this is a fitting definition [one of many] of a “sacrifice of righteousness.” But there are rewards…

“I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; For You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” ps 4:8 nkjv

Shalom… John