I am the righteousness of God in Christ

Romans 5: 1 (TLB) So now, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith in his promises, we can have real peace with him because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Consider the profound concept: "we are the righteousness of God in Christ." This notion prompts a reflection on what it truly means to stand in right relationship with God. While the prospect sounds appealing, one might wonder if there are actions one can take to merit such righteousness. The reality is that righteousness cannot be earned; rather, it is bestowed through unwavering faith in God.

Speaking personally, I adhere to rules, seeking clarity on expectations and my role in various contexts. A structured and systematic life brings me a sense of acceptance, and I strive to be in harmony with both God and people, yearning to earn their love and approval. In my pursuit, there is a desire to achieve personal worthiness, a wish to independently earn my righteousness. Yet, delving into Romans 4:1-3, we find a profound lesson from the life of Abraham, our forefather. If justification before God were based on works, Abraham might boast, but scripture reveals that Abraham's righteousness was not earned through deeds; instead, it was accounted to him because of his belief in God. This narrative challenges the idea that adherence to rules and commands alone can make one righteous before a holy God. “What then shall we say was gained by Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the Scripture say? ‘Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.’” Romans 4:1-3 Despite my earnest efforts to diligently follow divine commands, I grapple with my imperfections daily. The truth is, none of us can attain righteousness before a holy God through our actions alone—Abraham, a patriarch, exemplifies this reality. Paul's teachings emphasize that Abraham's righteousness resulted from faith, a gift from God. This gift, freely given to Abraham, is also extended to each of us. Like Abraham, striving for perfect obedience is futile; our human limitations make it impossible to earn righteousness independently. However, the liberating truth is that, through faith, we can receive the gift of righteousness from Jesus. Our journey toward righteousness involves turning to the Lord and putting our faith in Jesus Christ, acknowledging that it is through Him that we find true and lasting righteousness. Heavenly Father, Almighty God, I come before You with a heart full of belief in Jesus Christ, Your only begotten Son. I have welcomed Him into my life, acknowledging His grace and salvation. Today, I invite the Holy Spirit to dwell within me, granting me the necessary wisdom, insight, and understanding to navigate the challenges of this day. Lord, I recognize my utter dependence on You. There are moments when life feels devoid of meaning, and each day seems like an uphill struggle. As the years pass, I find myself increasingly concerned about the state of my relationship with You. I sense a void, a deficiency that prevents me from being the person You intend me to be. In humility, I lay my concerns before You, Lord. If there are sins within me that need confessing, I ask that You, in Your mercy, reveal them to me. Grant me the strength and courage to confess, that I may enter into a righteous relationship with You. I acknowledge my faith in You, understanding that with You, nothing is impossible. Lord, I surrender my fears, shortcomings, and uncertainties to You. May Your grace fill the gaps in my life, and may Your love guide me in becoming the person You designed me to be. In the powerful name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Embracing the Divine Empowerment

by Yvette van Niekerk

Psalm 46:1 (NKJV): "God, the Sanctuary for His Devotees and Victor over Nations. To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. A Song for Alamoth. God is our sanctuary and vigour, an ever-present aid in adversity." I perpetually draw my strength from the Almighty, finding confidence and courage in Him to confront any challenge. Currently, I grapple with turbulent emotions and struggle to contain my anger towards others. I earnestly strive to temper my words, yet often find myself unintentionally expressing thoughts that would have been better left unsaid. Navigating relationships proves to be a complex endeavour. When genuine anger surges within me, it often leads to outbursts. I beseech the Lord to place a guard over my tongue, yet I persist in my efforts. I persevere in refining my disposition, steadfastly holding onto the Lord, for I believe that without Him, reaching my destination is insurmountable. I perceive myself on a tumultuous journey, endeavouring to maintain my composure while beseeching God to fortify me in the face of trials. I recognize the need for distance from certain individuals, though achieving this seems improbable. The animosity they harbour and their subtle attempts to undermine me are a formidable challenge. I earnestly pray that the Lord refrains from granting me excessive strength, for I may become an unwarranted adversary. Thus, I embarked on my spiritual voyage, relying on the Lord to fortify me and guide my path. I am engaged in an ongoing struggle with this individual, sincerely praying that they discover their own footing, that the Lord grants them their heart's desires, and that their lives flourish with prosperity and blessings. Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I beseech You to shower my family with the rain we so desperately require. I am grateful and rejoice in You, my Lord God, for You have bestowed upon us the former rain in moderation, and I trust that You will send forth both the former and the latter rains in abundance. (Joel 2:23) I implore You, Lord, to let Your spiritual deluge descend, as You have promised. I cry out to the Holy Spirit, asking for the greatest harvest of souls. Lord, I confess that I cannot traverse this life without Your fortitude; I am utterly dependent on You. I uplift my family and friends to You, beseeching You, Lord, to hear my prayer. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Embracing the Journey: Navigating the Golden Years with Grace.

By Yvette van Niekerk

In Psalm 91:16 (NKJV), it is written, "With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation." Ageing is an inevitable part of life; each passing year is a testament to this universal truth. This month marks my 60th year, a milestone that prompts reflection and gratitude. As I step into this new season of life, I recognize that I am entering my Golden years. It is my heartfelt aspiration to become a beacon of wisdom and a guiding presence in the lives of those around me. I aspire not to become a person steeped in bitterness, perpetually discontented with the world. Instead, I yearn to immerse myself in the embrace of the Divine, to delve deeper into understanding the heavenly ways of God. I aim to be a shining light for those who feel adrift, to extend a helping hand that guides them closer to God's grace. The thought of walking steadfastly and suddenly finding myself in the presence of the Lord is a notion that captivates me. Enoch, who lived to be 365 years old and walked hand in hand with God into heaven, stands as a remarkable example of this divine transition, evading the trials of earthly departure. Romans 4:17 encourages us to "call those things which be not as though they were." I strive to emulate the teachings of the Lord Jesus, allowing His Word to shape my thoughts, and actions, and renew my spirit. I aspire to be a vessel of goodness, a source of pride for the Lord. In times of adversity, I reach out for unmerited gifts and the supernatural favour of God. I firmly believe that His Word is alive and powerful, and that my needs will be met by my Heavenly Father, who knows them intimately. With conviction, I declare today that I am blessed and prosperous. God is the faithful provider of all my necessities, aligning His provision with my spoken words. In 2 Corinthians 4:13 (Amplified Bible), the Apostle Paul reminds us, "We too believe, and therefore we speak." Like him, I affirm my faith through my words. Through Him, I find strength, and through His Word, I find renewal. Because He lives, I can boldly call on Him, knowing that my prayers are heard and answered. I extend my deepest gratitude to the Lord for His boundless grace and provision. In prayer, I lift my gratitude to the Lord, for on Thursday, I sought a gift from Him. Today, I rejoice, for not only did He grant my request, but He bestowed upon me sevenfold blessings. This reaffirms the truth of His Word. I hold fast to the belief that He is orchestrating divine shifts in my life, as well as in the lives of my husband and children. Thank you, Lord, for your abundant blessings. Amen.

Perched atop my virtual soapbox.

by Yvette van Niekerk Reflecting upon Nehemiah 8:4a (NKJV) – "So Ezra the scribe stood on a platform of wood which they had made for the purpose." Ezra, the priest and scribe, responded to the people's request to read the Word of God aloud. Upon hearing it, some were moved to tears, yet they found solace in singing praises to the Almighty.

Today, I ask: Are you standing on your soapbox? Where do you deliver your spontaneous speech? Is it in the vast expanse of the Internet – perhaps in your blog posts, Facebook updates, or even on Instagram? The power to disseminate the Word of God to multitudes lies within our grasp online. Let us seize this opportunity. Through this medium, we can educate, counsel, and uplift. Personally, I believe that through my humble blog, I touch the lives of many. My daily devotions are written with the hope of rewriting them, speaking from the depths of my heart. I yearn for God to inspire my words, infusing them with the essence of the Holy Spirit. When people read the scriptures I share, I pray that God touches their souls, igniting a desire to delve deeper into the mysteries of our Living God. May they draw nearer to Him and earnestly seek His divine kingdom. Although I cannot foresee my life two decades hence – in fact, I doubt I'll still be breathing then – I am determined that, while I am alive, the Word of God remains vibrant in my existence and in my community. I stand tall on my virtual soapbox, hoping that my words of encouragement resonate with others. My aspiration is to alter perspectives and inspire seekers to earnestly pursue God. In prayer, I offer all glory and honour to You, my Lord and Savior. Today, I beseech You for those who take the time to engage with and read my blog. My fervent prayer is that You draw them closer to You, guiding them through the words we share. Holy Spirit, I implore Your assistance for each one of us today. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.