Friday, July 18, 2014

July 19, 2014

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled." Matthew 5:6

In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus is painting a verbal picture of what His Kingdom will look like.

In the Beatitudes He sets the qualifications of the people who will populate the Kingdom.

The first issue that must be dealt with for those who aspire to the Kingdom is the issue of sin. How does that happen?

First, you must confront the truth about your evil human nature. You are a sinner by nature and your sin separates you from God and it brings you under His judgment. 

Second, understanding your sinful state should bring you to repentance. Sin must always break your heart and you should never allow yourself to become casual about sinning.

Third, your brokenness over your sin should lead you to place your will under His control. You cannot control sin but He can!

Once you have been emptied of your sin and self you can crave His righteousness like a starving man craves food and a thirsty man craves water.

How does that happen? Remember this acrostic:

C - Commit Yourself to His Righteousness

The first three Beatitudes are very clear, you have no righteousness of your own. Jesus and Jesus alone can impart His righteousness to you. You will know you have received it when you crave more of His righteousness!

R - Reprioritize Your Life

Build time and margins in your life that will make it possible for you to receive His righteousness and live it our in your daily walk.

A - Anchor Your Life In the Truth of His Word

God's Word determines what is right for you. Righteousness is not a multiple choice option. What God's Word says is right is what is right for you! 

V - Void and Avoid Unrighteousness

Determine to get rid of unrighteous behaviors, attitudes and thoughts so you have room to receive His righteousness. Daily determine to avoid willful sin in thought, word or deed.

E - Expect God to Fill You

God's promises are a covenant. When you do your part He will do His. When you rid your life of your sin and crave His righteousness - He will fill you up!

Craving His righteousness?

C.R.A.V.E. it, and you will be filled!