Law: Purpose: Prayers and Poetry

                                                Law

                                                When we do not recognize

                                                the law we cling to

                                                in our hearts

                                                we still become adamant

                                                when it is threatened

                                                resist its removal.

                                                Do not realize that

                                                righteousness only

                                                possible from the Lord

                                                deepens faith,

                                                hope, truth

                                                defeats despair.

                                                When we accept

                                                His righteousness

                                                on eternal terms

                                                suffering turns into

                                                a power beyond

                                                comprehension.

                                                Life replaces law.

                                               

Psalm 18:34, “He trains my hands for battle, So that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.”

Reflection: Righteousness: Purpose: Prayers and Poetry

Reflection Questions

1. How do we define, or see, righteousness?

2. What example of righteousness would you be able to share with someone who asks?

3. What law will be the easiest to let go of?

4. Which will be the most difficult? Why?

Share: How do you measure when righteousness is from the heart or an act of legalism?

Righteousness: Purpose: Prayers and Poetry

Philippians 3: 9-10, “and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith—that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,”

Righteousness

Even when in the midst of a busy family, or with friends, or work team, we still always have a sense of being, our own person. From that perspective we choose how we live by laws, by goals, and by beliefs.

All of these are hopefully honest and truth-filled and compassionate, but usually we are still setting for ourselves our own definitions of righteousness—even when we build from Bible verses.

So what changes do we need to make to be sure our righteousness is coming from God and His definition? For our days to walk in faith? To be willing to know Him and all the power of His resurrection seems a lot more complex than to simply be a good person.

Yet, that seems to be what the Lord offers each if us—a life of faith—not knowing what may happen next, but with a inner peace that cannot be shaken by comments, or circumstances, and worry.

Difficult—probably—but not fearful. Confused—often—but not worried (hopefully).

Lord, please teach each of us how to live into Your righteousness.

Your thoughts,