Exercise in Righteousness



Prayer: 
O Morning Star, how fair and bright! 
You shine with God’s own truth and light,
Aglow with grace and mercy!
Of Jacob’s race, King David’s son,
Our Lord and master, You have won
Our hearts to serve You only!
Lowly, holy! Great and glorious,
All victorious, Rich in blessing!
Rule and might o’er all possessing! 

Come, heav’nly Bridegroom, Light divine,
And deep within our hearts now shine;
There light a flame undying! In Your one body let us be
As living branches of a tree, Your life our lives supplying.
Now, though daily, Earth’s deep sadness,
May perplex us, And distress us,
Yet with heav’nly joy You bless us.

Read: Psalm 25
http://www.esvbible.org/Psalm+25/

Think about It: As we examine the concept of righteousness Psalm 25 comes along and is completely perfect at shining light on the subject. This Psalm is attributed to King David although it is uncertain as to when or in reference to what events he wrote it. For us, that really doesn’t matter because it is as fresh for us today as it was the day he penned if for himself.

As we read this Psalm in its entirety. we see that David is overwhelmingly convinced from whence his righteousness comes. He trusts in the Lord alone to declare him righteous, just as Abraham did. He is also counting on God to continue the lesson. He wants to be shown God’s ways and taught God’s paths. God’s truth is the only truth and David wants to know it well. Even in the midst of this recognition of God as God, David also recognizes his own sinfulness and lack of righteousness if left on his own. These are all admirable ideas and attributes; so admirable that we do well to copy them and practice them with regularity.

As a part of your devotional time for today, read through this Psalm at least 3 times. As you read, highlight one verse that really stands out for you. (That may be difficult all by itself, as this Psalm is FILLED with fantastic verses.) If possible memorize that verse. If you struggle with memorization, write that verse down on a slip of paper. Now ask God to bring that verse into your  conscience mind several times during the day. Read it, recite it, and really chew on it. At the end of the day, review. How were you blessed because God’s Word was so much a part of your day? How was your righteousness “increased” by this practice? After reviewing your blessings, perhaps you want to try this exercise again tomorrow!

Prayer: Almighty Father, in Your Son,
                   You loved us when not yet begun
          Was this old earth’s foundation!
          Your Son has ransomed us in love
          To live in Him here and above:
          This is Your great salvation. Alleluia!
          Christ the living, To us giving, Life forever,
          Keeps us Yours and fails us never!

          O let the harps break forth in sound!
          Our joy be all with music crowned,
          Our voices gladly blending!
          For Christ goes with us all the way—
          Today, tomorrow, ev’ry day!
          His love is never ending!
          Sing out! Ring out! Jubilation!
          Exultation! Tell the story!
          Great is He, the King of Glory!
©1978 LBW. Used by permission: LSB Hymn License .NET, no. 100012090.

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