158. Way of righteousness.

"John came to you to show you the 'way of righteousness' and you did not believe him but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him." (John 21:32) Many reject the Gospel not because it doesn't make sense but because they hate to come into the light. 'This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of the light because their deeds are evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.' (John 3:19-20) We are blessed to have discovered this 'way of righteousness' though it seem difficult. 'Infact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted ... But as for you, continue in what you have learnt and have become convinced of ...' ( 2 Timothy 3:12-14) We are warned never to stray from the 'way of righteousness'. As for those who did, 'it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than to have known it and then turn their backs on the sacred command passed on to them.' (2 Peter 2:21) They will be worse off than before! (Matthew 12:53-45) The sacred command to 'love the Lord our God with all our hearts and all our soul and with all our strength' (Deuteronomy 6:4), hasn't changed in the new testament. (Mark 12:29-30) Our walk in righteousness is then the proof of our love for him and not our words. However, the most assuring truth is that 'he guides us in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.' (Psalm 23:3) His reputation is on the line, whenever we falter. Therefore it is in his interest that we continue to walk in righteousness. Moses said to the Lord, "Teach me your ways that I may know you and continue to find favour with you." (Exodus 33:13) Let this be our prayer too! Amen.