As Paul gives us an analogy between weapons for the spiritual battle and the armor of a Roman soldier, we see that truth and righteousness are the foundation. Paul was under house arrest, probably in Rome. He was trying to pastor the believers who lived in Ephesus from a distance. So, while he was writing …
As Jesus began His teaching, He spoke of the attitude of the heart. He emphasized the importance of righteous character and how it brings blessings of the Kingdom to the believer. To be righteous means doing what God requires of us. The Pharisees focused on outward appearances, observing the Law, tithing, fasting, and praying with …
Jesus’ teachings radically reorient our worldview. Jesus’ disciples had left their old life behind to follow Jesus. Then Jesus began to teach them and the crowds that had gathered that their worldview needed to change. Jesus started by listing items that bring blessings in His Kingdom. This list is sometimes called ‘the Beatitudes’, because the …
In the story of Abraham interceding for Sodom, we can see that God values the righteous. Genesis 18: 32 Finally, Abraham said, “Lord, please don’t be angry with me if I speak one more time. Suppose only ten are found there?” And the Lord replied, “Then I will not destroy it for the sake of the …
Have you ever thought about finding favor in God’s eyes? The word ‘favor’ is used in various ways throughout the Bible. It can mean grace and acceptance, but in this context, it is the state of favorable regard.[1] Trying to earn God’s favor feels like running a long race without a finish line, climbing a never-ending …
Righteous decisions can make the difference between taking the wide or the narrow road along our spiritual journey. We must recognize that we will wander from our Savior without the Lord’s help of the Holy Spirit. When difficult times occur in life, and they will, our sinful flesh desires to choose the comfortable, easy path. …
Paul warned Timothy that the enemy sets traps for us to fall into, such as the love of money. But as God’s children, we must aim for and pursue righteousness. If you have had children, sometimes they push the envelope without getting into trouble but coming close. If we push the envelope too close to …
Having a righteous fear of God can keep us from going down many wrong paths in our life. Scripture gives us insight into what fear of the Lord is all about. Psalm 111:10 Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom. Praise him forever! [1] …