Christians, many years ago I struggled with trying to be RIGHT. Sometimes my wife and I would get into discussions, they were good discussions, but then something would come up where there was a disagreement about something said-usually a miscommunication. I would get upset, she would get upset, maybe we wouldn’t talk for a little bit, then it would get near bedtime. Through these frustrations, I now fully grasp the scripture that says not to let the sun go down on your anger. (Ephesians 4:26)
One night I was lying in bed, thinking how she needed to apologize. Do you know what the Holy Spirit said? “Apologize to her.” I thought: wait a minute and then I listed off the scenarios, how I was right and she was wrong. Then I thought again: SHE needs to apologize to ME! The Holy Spirit responded with the simplest of statements, “Would you rather be right or righteous?” Wow, talk about the reality of God hitting me between the eyes like a ton of bricks. God does not care if I am right, He cares if I am righteous. I tell you, I am still today in awe of that deep insight from such a small phrase.
Needless to say, I apologized. I made amends, and it was a blow to my pride, my self-righteousness. I humbled myself and guess what, then I knew I was righteous before God, and not in my own eyes. Sure, I had lost the argument, I had to let go of my frustration, but it was freeing. God gives grace to the humble, and since I humbled myself, now I could receive His grace. Many times since that night, I have heard the phrase, “Right or Righteous” rolling through my mind when I get into certain circumstances. I know God desires for me to live a righteous life, living in peace and harmony, not having rivalries or strife.
In the same manner Christians, I challenge you by the Spirit of God; do you want to be RIGHT or RIGHTEOUS? Maybe it is your wife or husband and a battle has been brewing, or another family member, extended family, co-worker, boss, neighbor, or anyone else you are not at peace with. I would ask you, is it worth it to “be right” if God looks at you and sees unrighteousness, bitterness, anger, resentment, slander, and hurtful thoughts?
Take this freeing opportunity, first apologize…whatever you have done wrong, ask the Holy Spirit to show you areas that you need to repent from. Get right with them, in turn, then you will get right with God and you can then reap the benefits of being a righteous person: peace, joy, happiness, rest, calmness, protection and love from Almighty God! Choose righteousness, choose love. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23-24 (NIV)
Boys (lads), let no one deceive and lead you astray. He who practices righteousness [who is upright, conforming to the divine will in purpose, thought , and action, living a consistently concientious life] is righteous, even as He is righteous. 1 John 3:7 (AMP)
But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides. Matthew 6:33 (AMP)
Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken. Psalm 55:22 (NIV)
written and posted by Daniel Poggensee | 2017
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