In the New Testament passage for today we read of one of the greatest injustices in human history. Jesus was totally innocent. He was ‘a righteous man’ (Luke 23:47). Yet he was executed by crucifixion. The apostle Peter explains it like this: ‘For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God’ (1 Peter 3:18).
The word ‘righteous’ is often associated with the ‘self-righteous’, and has almost become a term of abuse. However, ‘righteous’ in the Bible is a wonderful word. It is also extremely important for our understanding of the whole Bible. ‘Righteousness’ is ultimately about right relationships – a right relationship with God and right relationships with others. In the New Testament, we come to understand that this righteousness is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ (see Romans 3:21 – 4:25).
Proverbs 10:21-30
Blessings of the righteous
The book of Proverbs contrasts the life of the ‘fool’ with the life of the ‘wise’. It also contrasts the life of the ‘righteous’ with the life of the ‘wicked’. Here are some of the many blessings that are promised to ‘the righteous’:
- Difference to others
‘The lips of the righteous nourish many’ (v.21a). We cannot be righteous in isolation. Righteousness is about our relationships – it is about bringing blessing to others. Who could you ‘nourish’ (feed, guide, encourage) with your words today? - Delight in wisdom
‘Those who have insight delight in wisdom’ (v.23b). One of the things that come from a relationship with God is a hunger for knowledge and wisdom. Ask for wisdom today. God promises to give wisdom when you ask (James 1:5). - Desires fulfilled
‘What the righteous desire will be granted’ (Proverbs 10:24b). God’s Spirit begins to change your will to align it with his (Philippians 2:13) and, as it becomes aligned with his will, God promises to give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). - Destiny of joy
‘The prospect of the righteous is joy’ (Proverbs 10:28a). ‘The righteous stand firm forever’ (v.25b); ‘The fear of the Lord adds length to life’ (v.27a) and ‘The righteous will never be uprooted’ (v.30a). Right relationships are a source of great joy. Your joy is made ‘complete’ in a relationship with Jesus (John 15:11). Your destiny is eternal joy.
Lord, I pray for wisdom today and that You would put a guard over my lips so that my words may be used to feed and guide others, Amen.