Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.
—Proverbs 14:34
This scripture from Proverbs holds a great truth that goes beyond its theological meaning in the original Hebrew language. At face value, God favors and blesses nations and individuals who embrace righteousness and moral integrity. Conversely, sin is reprehensible and brings shame and a reproach to any people. While we live in a world where sin is prevalent and unrighteousness is widespread, we can find hope in the divine grace that surpasses the power of sin.
The theme of this quarter is “Robes of Righteousness.” One time while on the mission field, I received a vision and a message about the “Bride of Christ.” This vision deepened my understanding of the Church as Christ’s bride, highlighting its beauty and purity in a greater light. My prayer is that this study will touch every reader and lead them to a greater understanding of true righteousness. May the Holy Spirit do what words cannot.
The Church, symbolized as a bride, is called to be pure, holy, chaste, and prepared for the Lord’s return. The Church is not an abstract concept but a body of believers. Thus, each believer is to be adorned with the righteousness of God. While there are debates about the definition of sin and worldly behavior, and there are criticisms of the Church’s standards of holiness, can we not pause and seek for a divine vision of Christ’s bride? Let us lay down, for just a little while, our ideas, opinions, preconceptions, and traditions and open our hearts and minds to the Word and Spirit as we seek for a greater revelation of righteousness.
What does God desire to do in our hearts and lives? If we are saved, we are part of His Church. In light of this, how should we live and conduct ourselves? Controversies often diminish when we view them through the lens of God’s righteousness. As the bride of Christ, our aim should be to please God and avoid actions and influences that are tainted with the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.
As we see the beauty of righteousness, there is a solemnity and a challenge for us to examine our lives and ensure they align with God’s holiness. We all have imperfections, but our goal should be to become more like Christ, allowing the Holy Spirit to shape and mold us. Just as a small impurity can taint a whole cup of water, a bit of unrighteousness can negatively affect our spirit.
May we see the purity of the bride and earnestly seek to live righteously and acceptably before God.
Michael W. Smith
October 2024
