Today’s Reading: Psalm 101, 103, 105, 106
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 holy or 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.
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 THINK I can lead a life of integrity. If the foundation of my prayer starts with “The Lord gives righteousness…”, then I can join in this prayer with confidence that it is all about my WILLING heart and God’s CAPABLE hands. It’s not about what I HOPE I can do but what I KNOW God can do! 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. – Psalm 101:1-2
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
Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him. – Psalm 105:4
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 can 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. I desire to sing your praises all day long! Amen.
My hope is built on nothing less / Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness / I dare not trust the sweetest frame / But wholly trust in Jesus’ name / Christ alone, Cornerstone / Weak made strong in the Savior’s love / Through the storm / He is Lord / Lord of all / When darkness seems to hide His face / I rest on His unchanging grace / In every high and stormy gale / My anchor holds within the veil / My anchor holds within the veil [Cornerstone, Hillsong Worship, 2012]