THE EFFECT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

"And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever." (Isaiah 32:17)

Isaiah wrote of the blessings of the New Covenant– the time of the reign of the Lord Jesus Christ. The spirit calls it "the day of salvation" and "the accepted time" (2 Cor 6:2). Jesus referred to it as "the acceptable year of the Lord" (Lk 4:19). It is a glorious time, indeed, when the very "righteousness of God" is conferred upon those who believe on the Son (Rom 3:21-22).

The conferment of this righteousness involves the removal of sin and the cleansing of the conscience. The individual so blessed is fully accepted by God with no reservation whatsoever. Free access to the throne of all grace is granted, and the angelic hosts are marshaled to minister to the heirs of salvation. All of this is legal and right, with no possibility of it being contradicted by any personality in heaven or earth.

More is involved in this transaction than mere legality. There are marvelous effects of this righteousness within the believer. The spirit said the "work," or accomplishment, of this righteousness would be "peace." This speaks of the calming of the soul in the very presence of God. It is a thoughtful peace that allows the believer to be at home in the very presence of the Almighty God.

The text elaborates on this righteousness by speaking of its effects. Everything that comes from God has an effect upon the recipient–a long term effect. In this case, it is "quietness and assurance." These are indispensable to the triumph of the believer. They are also most remarkable. In a turbulent society, the righteous one is quiet and calm. In a changing and oppressive world, the believer possesses assurance, confidence, and spiritual poise. Who is the soul that does not thirst for such wonderful effects? They are all within the grasp of those in Christ Jesus.

But these do not come as a result of our own righteousness, or through our efforts to remain pure in the sight of our Lord–although such efforts are necessary. It is the righteousness IMPUTED to us that produces the effects in reference. It is our faith that accesses that righteousness, not our works (Rom 3:22; 4:5,22-24). Once received, that righteousness will produce peace, quietness, and assurance. It is impossible for these not to so occur.

PRAYER POINT: Father, thank You, in Jesus name, for the peace, quietness, and confidence that are enjoyed because of your imputed righteousness.

-- MONDAY: JESUS SUSTAINS ALL THINGS --