The Lord gives righteousness… – Psalm 103:6a

I could just stop right there. I love the powerful message contained in these four words. I cannot in a million years be righteous on my own but I serve a generous God who GIVES righteousness. I can never be good enough but He is enough – His righteousness can look at this ungodly heart and call me godly.

Light shines on the godly, and joy on those whose hearts are right.
May all who are godly rejoice in the Lord and praise His holy name. – Psalm 97:11-12

When I consider that it is HIS righteousness that makes a godly life possible, I can join in with the psalmist in this prayer of commitment to living a godly life. If I think for one minute I can do it on my own, this prayer is said with uncertainty. I HOPE I can live a blameless life, I HOPE I can lead a life of integrity. If the foundation of my prayer starts with “The Lord give righteousness…”, then I can join in this prayer with confidence that it is all about my willing heart and God’s capable heart. If I am willing to commit to living a holy life, He will give me His righteousness.

I will sing of your love and justice, Lord.
I will praise you with songs.
I will be careful to live a blameless life – when will you come to help me?
I will lead a life of integrity in my own home.
I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar.
I hate all who deal crookedly;
I will have nothing to do with them.
I will reject perverse ideas and stay away from every evil.
I will not tolerate people who slander their neighbors.
I will not endure conceit and pride. – Psalm 101:1-5

Give thanks to the Lord, for HE IS GOOD!
His faithful love endures forever.
Who can list the glorious miracles of the Lord?
Who can ever praise him enough?
There is joy for those who deal justly with others
and always do what is right. – Psalm 106:1-3

Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim HIS greatness.
Let the whole world know what HE has done.
Sing to Him; yes, sing His praises.
Tell everyone about HIS wonderful deeds.
Exult in His holy name; rejoice, you who worship the Lord.
Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him.
Remember the wonders he has performed, his miracles, and the rulings he has given…
He is the Lord our God.
His justice is seen throughout the land.
He ALWAYS stands by His covenant –
the commitment He has made to a thousand generations. – Psalm 105:1-8

Lord, I search this morning for You and for Your strength. I am seeking You and asking You for a fresh outpouring of Your righteousness into my life. Fill me with Your Spirit so I cannot submit to Your plan for my life. Every word I say, every action I take today, may it be evidence of Your righteousness at work in my life. Thank you for your faithfulness – that you ALWAYS stand by Your covenant. I desire to sing Your praises all day long! Amen.