THE PATH OF RIGHTEOUSNESS: PART II Have you ever had to turn someone you love over to authorities? Have you ever had to report a work colleague for misconduct? Or not bore false witness on behalf of a loved one or friend? Such instances are a true test of the path you are on and whether it is the path of righteousness or not. Some would claim that loyalty and trust come before righteousness in their life. Like the mother who goes to great lengths to protect her child from the law – even though she knows he or she have done wrong. Or the friend who discloses to you they have committed a crime and come to you to assist them in the ‘cover-up’ of it. Or the family member who comes to you for supporting evidence to assist them in making a false claim or to give evidence to assist in getting them a benefit they are not entitled to receive. The moment you choose righteousness over any of these situations what happens? Spirtually you would win – but physically you would lose. You would lose that son or daughter, that friend or family member. Why? Because they would all claim that your loyalty should have been displayed first and foremost instead of righteousness. They would all feel that you were against them, but what you are really to saying to them is “I am for you” but I am against your behaviour. Righteousness cannot be achieved through your works or by your own efforts. We are counted as righteous by God when we receive Jesus by faith. Paths of righteousness are the only paths that Jesus leads us on. As difficult as it would be to face any of the above situations, we would give control over to Our Saviour who will lead us and we will follow Him. If you are facing an inner battle today of whether loyalty or righteousness come first because you fear what you may lose, or fear what you may be called, or fear the consequences for the other person(s) involved, just ask yourself: “What would Jesus Christ do under the circumstances?” Afterall, we are striving to become Christ-like as we take our Walk with God. And always remember to talk to Our Father in Heaven ... He knows what you face today and fortunately for us, He already knows the outcome. I would simply say to Him “Father, I leave this in your capable hands and may Your Will be done!” Peace be with you all ... Melissa Jean
Posted on: Thu, 04 Jul 2013 23:27:00 +0000