And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever. – Isaiah 32:17
The side effects of doing the right thing in this broken world may sometimes be negative. Not only is it challenging to stand for what is right in a “truth is relative” world, but there can be pushback from others. Dark spiritual forces are at work to steer you away from doing deeds of goodness and compassion as well as defending God’s truth. With so much opposition, why go to the trouble of doing what is right when it is unpopular and hard?
Jesus questioned whether His disciples would leave Him after circumstances became more difficult and many stopped following Him. Peter spoke for those present and for many of us through the ages, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God” (John 6:68-69). Those who know God and the beauty of His Son Jesus Christ have experienced the sustaining joy of His presence.
The upside of walking with the Savior, according to today’s verse, is peace, quietness, and trust. Forever! These are manifest within the believer, regardless of external circumstances. Further positive “effects” are the fruit, or evidence, of the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul told the Galatians that there is no law against the characteristics of “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). When you are confronted with the downside of following Christ, rejoice in His triumph over evil and praise Him for His transforming work in your life. And remember Jesus’ promise of the future with Him in heaven (John 14:3)! Christians are fully aware of the risks of walking in righteousness, but they know nothing compares.
As candidates begin to campaign for the coming election cycle, pray for discernment for the voters in this nation to recognize their character. Intercede on behalf of current governing officials that they will have courage to do what is right. Ask that, when circumstances get difficult, they will serve with integrity and transparency for the benefit of the American people.
Today’s Verse: Isaiah 32:17
And the effect of righteousness will be peace,
and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Titus 3:1-7
Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, 2 to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. 3 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. 4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
