THOUGHTS FROM MATTHEW
February 22
Text: Matthew 7:7, 8
"Ask, and it shall be
given to you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be
opened to you. For
everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him
who knocks it shall be opened.”
(NASB)
Righteousness is an aggressive quality.
In no way is it a passive dedication!
It does NOT arise from a “wait and let’s see” attitude,
nor from an “it's okay if it happens and okay if it does not”
attitude, nor from an “I will tolerate it if it happens”
attitude. It does
NOT capture people who are unaware of it!
No one
is accidentally righteous!
Righteousness does not “just happen” to the man or woman
who “just happens to be that kind of person.”
The person who is righteous is determined to have a life
characterized by righteous motives and righteous behavior.
Being righteous matters to this person.
Righteousness is not a matter of convenience—it is a
matter of necessity.
Its
importance is of such magnitude that the person will ask until
there is discovery, will seek until he/she finds, and will knock
until he/she gains entrance.
This is a determined pursuit!
It is a continuing process, not a “one time achievement.”
To this person, an understanding of how to be
righteous is essential for survival—in all stages and
experiences of life.
Why? How could anything be so important? Why could anything demand such determination?
(1) He/she
understands that righteous human existence reflects God’s
character. (2)
He/she understands human righteousness is a part of continuing
divine intent. (3)
He/she understands that human existence involves much more than
“right here, right now.”
(4) He/she understands human righteousness is essential
to having an accepting relationship with God.
(5) With all his/her being, this person wants a
relationship with God.
Jesus’ assurance: The search for righteousness is never
in vain!
Suggestion for reflection: Examine your commitment to be
righteous. (Read 1
John 3:21-23.)
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