Proverbs Chapter 11. Righteousness.
Proverbs talks a lot about being righteous and compares it to those practicing evil. Here's some things that were said about one who practices righteousness:
They are able to stay on the right path. God delivers them from troubles. They prosper. They focus on others. They honor others above themselves. They're rewarded. It brings life and freedom. It freely gives. It brings life for self and saves others.
I just meditate on the word righteousness. What would my life look like if I made it a priority? I would have to surrender my life to the Lord daily to have the best results because my flesh fights against righteousness. I have the tendency to focus on self before I think of others.
If righteousness was truly every bit a part of my life I would look at people different. I wouldn't see “jerks” walking around but would see people in desperate need of the love of Jesus. I wouldn't lust for the things of this world but I would want to be a blessing to others through my giving of money, my time, my love.
Yesterday I was doing a prayer walk and saw a delivery truck parked where I was walking. The driver was an African-American and had his window down. I said hi as I walked by and asked how he was doing. He said good and then asked how I was. As I walked past him I thought about the fact that he was black. I wondered if, as a black man, does he feel white people respect him or not respect him?
At that time I said a prayer to God and prayed that God would bless him and would help him know his true value and worth regardless of his skin color. As I said the prayer God impressed upon my heart. You bless him. Give him your money for food. I started to fight the thought but it was so predominant in my mind I knew I'd be a fool if I walked away from this opportunity to be a blessing. I emptied my wallet. I only had six or seven dollars but went back and asked the man if he had lunch yet today. He said yes. I gave him the money and said this is for your next meal. His eyes got real big. He said thanks and then said, “We got to get the good word out.” I responded, “Yes, God is Good!” Was he talking about the Gospel or just acts of love? I don't know. But I do know this, if he had thoughts of white people being racist against blacks, then God just chipped away some of that thought.
Righteousness loves all people. Righteousness doesn't see color. Righteousness doesn't see gender. Righteousness doesn't see behavior when it comes to loving and honoring others. It reaches out to all with the love of Jesus.
CHALLENGE: How can God show his righteousness through you today?