Righteous

What shall we say, then? That Gentiles who did not pursue righteousness have attained it, that is, a righteousness that is by faith; but that Israel who pursued a law that would lead to righteousness did not succeed in reaching that law. Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone, as it is written,

“Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense;
    and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.” Romans 9:30-33

I am righteous only by faith in Jesus. With a works mentality. Remember still when God revealed to me I was trying to earn my position with him. My heart knew it wasn’t right but my motive revealed that my mind was not convinced of it, so I had to do something. For a long time, God had me quit everything so I could learn that He accepted me right as I was.

God accepted Christ and said “This is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased.” before Jesus ever stepped out in ministry. Our position as righteous is rooted solely in Christ and our faith in Him. I can’t do anything to earn it, except believe that it is true.

As I stepped back into serving others, I realized I was able to serve to Him, not just for Him. It is out of my relationship and standing with Him that I serve, not to gain relationship and standing.

Lord, Thank You for Jesus’ righteousness that is made available to me by faith. Help me to live it out.