Twin Peaks

The scripture for today is Psalms 11:7

Psalms 11:7 For the LORD is righteous, He loves righteousness; His countenance beholds the upright.

God designed us for fellowship with Himself. When mankind rejected God in favor of the evil one, the human heart was changed; the righteousness of God no longer ruled there; mankind was in a place of spiritual darkness and in need of redemption.

Thankfully, God did not reject us because of our sin; His lack of rejection, however, did not alter His standards, it magnified His love. The greatness of His love for us was demonstrated when He sent His Son to bridge the gap of offense and make it possible for sinners to be restored to a right relationship with their Creator. The standard of righteousness was lived to perfection in Christ. That standard is once again placed into our hearts through the new birth and we now can embrace the righteousness of God through the life that He gives us. “For you were once darkness, but now are you light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.” Ephesians 5:8  

God has, through Christ Jesus, restored us back to the righteous state that He created us in. He looks upon us with favor, He hears our prayers and His heart is open to us. “The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and His ears are open unto their cry.” Psalms 34:15 “For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.” 1 Peter 3:12

God has determined that we are going to be like Jesus, recreated in His image, and it is the righteousness of Christ that the world sees in those who are His. “For whom He did foreknow, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.” Romans 8:29

Because of the love of God and the sacrifice of Christ, we have been given the gift of righteousness through Him. “But of Him are you in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.” 1 Corinthians 1:30

We, who were once dead in our sins, have been given the righteousness of God. We did nothing to deserve such a wonderful gift, but God in His great love for us gave it to us in Christ. He chose to bless those who turn from the sinful ways of the world and embrace His righteousness. “For you, LORD, will bless the righteous; with favor will you surround him with a shield.” Psalms 5:12 It is a gift offered to all. May we accept His wonderful gift and live our lives expressing our gratitude to Him.

God bless you as you continue in His service.

Tim