Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Righteousness & Obedience

"For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God's sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous." (Romans 2:13)

There is an interesting paradox in this passage. On the one hand we know that nothing we can do can make us rightous, yet on the other hand God is saying that it is through obedience that we are declared righteous. I believe what this passage is saying (as opposed to an infered works righteousness) is that we need to be fully submitted to God's will and purposes to be declared righteous. Obedience is more about cooperating with God's will than earning God's favour. When we obey God's laws we embrace His ways that have the power to transform us, therefore, the reason we are declared righteous.

Monday, May 2, 2011

Blameless & Righteous

"Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous...He who does these things will never be shaken." (Psalm 15:2,5)

Lord, you have called me into a right and holy relationship with the living God. It is your desire that I may dwell in your presence. You have provided the way for an intimate relationship, restoring what was lost in the garden of Eden. Your sancturary is a holy place and for me to remain in that place, I need to walk in your ways. It is my deep desire to be blameless and righteous in your sight. I want a heart after your own; I want a renewed mind; I want a steadfast spirit. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.