March 5, 2023

Suggested Readings:

Romans 4:1-5, 13-17

John 3:1-17

pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, —2 Timothy 2:22

In Romans 4:3 Paul declares, “Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness. This declaration is repeated in Galatians 3:6 and James 2:23. Further, Paul instructs a young pastor to pursue righteousness.

What does it mean to be righteous? Can we obtain righteousness by human effort? In its widest sense righteousness means upright, just, virtuous, keeping the commands of God. This definition makes it sound like if we just do the right things, we can achieve righteousness. This is not the case. Righteousness is not earned it is conferred. That is, we are made righteous, not because of our worthiness, but solely based on Christ’s sacrifice on our behalf. The upright and virtuous acts we perform are the result of Christ’s action, not our human achievement.

If we cannot earn righteousness, then what does it mean to pursue righteousness?

I would suggest that righteousness means being rightly related to God. There are steps we can take to enhance our relationship with God.

Jesus told Nicodemus that he must be born from above (John 3:3). This a spiritual birth which is possible only through Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Without being born from above it is impossible to pursue righteousness. As such, the first step in the process of being rightly related to God is to accept the sacrifice of Jesus for our salvation. Nothing can take the place of this step. Church membership, denominational affiliation, even Bible study cannot take the place of being born from above.

As with any relationship it requires effort to maintain and strengthen this very crucial connection. This journey toward Jerusalem is intended to support us as we seek to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ (Ephesians 4:15).

Having been born from above we determine to cultivate holy habits When we choose the path of spiritual transformation, we do so understanding that whole-hearted devotion is essential.

It is important on this journey to set aside a specific time and place to commit yourself to reading, reflection, prayer, and perhaps journaling. Early morning works well for some, while bedtime may be best for you. The important point is to find a time and place where you are not likely to be disturbed.

There is no rush on this journey. In fact, you will learn that this journey moves beyond the 40 days of Lent and takes you on a lifetime journey of becoming one with Christ.

It is vital to read and reflect on the biblical text. It is a good practice to read the text more than once. Let the words speak to you. Listen for a word or phrase in the text that addresses you where you are in the present moment. There are several texts provided for each day along the journey. Don’t interpret. Listen to what God’s Spirit is saying to you through the text. This journey is about personal spiritual transformation. Practice listening for the voice of God in the written word.

Take a few minutes to jot down your thoughts. Don’t worry about spelling or grammar. Complete sentences are unimportant. The crucial question is what you hear God saying to you in the written word.

Prayer:

Merciful and gracious Father, thank you for the gift of Jesus, whose life, death, and resurrection make salvation possible. God, instill in me the desire and resolve to pursue righteousness through the practice of spiritual discipline. When I’m tired and discouraged remind me that I am your child and you are partnering with me on this journey. I want to love you more each day.   Amen