WEEK 25 – DAY 1

June 21, 2021

RIGHT RELATIONSHIP RESULTS IN RIGHTEOUSNESS

But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his graceG5485 through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood . . . Romans 3:21-25a

G5485 – grace – charis – the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life. . .

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible

Many Christians can quote John 15:5, “I am the vine, you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” Do we believe it? Do we live like we believe it? I’ve spent a lot of time trying to be good enough, feeling compelled to do the “right” things, working like crazy to meet the expectations of others and myself. I’ve realized in recent years that trying to squeeze good works from myself and playing the martyr are not how God desires me to live. Just as I am saved by grace, I must also live by grace. Salvation is due to God’s drawing my heart and my receiving His gift by faith. His life is then reflected in my life. That is the benefit of walking with Him. Righteousness does not come from straining and striving to be like Jesus. Righteousness occurs in my life as I spend more time with Christ, in His word, and in prayer. Then His grace, His “divine influence upon the heart,” is liberally, joyfully, graciously reflected in the peace that I have and the deeds that I do. Pursuing my relationship with the Righteous One results in righteousness. I am only able to do His works when I take time to be His child.

Father, may our lives be a reflection of Your influence on our hearts. May we be known not for our efforts in our own strength but for the evidence of Your grace to and in us. May You be glorified as others see Jesus in us.