March 11 - Only His Righteousness

“…a righteous man…” (James 5:16b)

Yesterday, we looked at the meaning of fervent prayer. The next  phrase in this verse says that it is the fervent prayer of a righteous man that  avails much. So, what is meant by a “righteous” man? (Let’s clarify that the  word “man” is generic, and includes both men and women, as in “mankind”.)  We can be thankful James uses the word “righteous” and not perfect,  since we could never qualify as perfect. It is impossible to be seen by God as  righteous based on our own goodness. Isaiah reminds us that even what we  see as our righteousness are filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6).

But since we have accepted the free gift of salvation that Jesus  purchased for us, we can now be seen by God as righteous. When we  approach God in prayer, He sees us covered, clothed with Jesus’ white robe  of righteousness. What a wonderfully reassuring image.

However, we still struggle with sin. 1 John 1:9 says, “If we say that  we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”  But, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our  sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Acknowledging that  we do have sin, confessing it and receiving forgiveness from Him are each  necessary steps before we can move forward with a cleansed heart and  renewed spirit. So, with David, let’s ask God to ”Create in me a clean  heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm  51:10).

Let’s come confidently before the Throne of Grace (Hebrews 4:16)  with thanksgiving to Jesus for purchasing our perfect “robe of  righteousness.” Let’s ask Him to show us how we may be soiling that white  robe, and ask Him to enable us to walk blameless before Him.  

Today’s Action:  Let’s read Proverbs 11 together, letting His words of wisdom fall on  good ground and bear much fruit for His Kingdom.

As righteousness leads to life, so he who pursues evil pursues it to  his own death. The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who  wins souls is wise.”  (Proverbs 11:19, 30)