Is it possible to actually measure the results of being righteous and showing love? Are there rewards for being like and doing the things that Jesus did? Apparently so.
“Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity, and honor,” promised Solomon. Notice, if you will, this proverb begins with the word “whoever” - an all-inclusive, unlimited invitation to everyone.
The rewards promised are tangible: “life” is a personal gift; “prosperity” is the physical gifts God gives us, and “honor” is social recognition for what we do for others in honor of God. We must realize, however, that these gifts are byproducts from the “pursuit” of being righteous and loving.
Only God is righteous and loving. We will never “be” completely righteous and loving in this life. So, we are confronted with the importance of “pursuing” righteousness and being “completely” loving. Can we know if we are living a righteous and loving life?
Righteous living has two dimensions: a horizontal and vertical dimension. Horizontal begins with my being in a “right” relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ. It begins with faith in Him and our faith in Him results in our being faithful to Him. Others will recognize a difference in the way we live because we are applying His teachings in and through and with our lives.
It is the application of His teachings that leads to righteous living by showing His love, mercy, and grace to others. This is what is meant by the vertical dimension. While never easy, we must, to the best of our ability, commit ourselves to do His work through His strength and power.
Thank God that He understands the difference between attaining and pursuing. If we submit our lives to Him, read His Word, pray earnestly and “give” His love to others, we’ll be rewarded.
Prayer: Lord, after all You’ve done for us, give us no rest until we pursue Your righteousness and love, and share it with others. May we worship You with all our hearts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Proverbs 21:21 Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity, and honor.
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