How can we apply the principle of imputed righteousness in our daily lives? Scripture Focus “David speaks likewise of the blessedness of the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works.” — Romans 4:6 What Imputed Righteousness Means - At saving faith, God legally credits Christ’s perfect record to our account (Genesis 15:6; 2 Corinthians 5:21). - Justification is instant, not earned or progressive (Romans 3:22–24). - Works never secure this status; grace alone does (Ephesians 2:8–9). Why This Matters Day to Day - Identity: we’re accepted because of Christ, not our fluctuating performance (Romans 8:1). - Gratitude: forgiveness fuels joyful obedience (Titus 2:11–14). - Peace: lingering guilt loses power when we remember the Father sees us in His Son. Practical Ways to Live It Out Daily Reminders - Begin mornings by reciting 2 Corinthians 5:21 and thanking God for the exchange on the cross. - Keep “identity verses” (Romans 8:1; Philippians 3:9) handy for moments of accusation. Quick, Confident Confession - Acknowledge sin promptly, trusting your standing is secure (1 John 1:9). - Replace self-condemnation with praise for righteousness already credited. Grace-Shaped Relationships - Extend the same unearned acceptance God grants you (Ephesians 4:32). - Drop score-keeping; credit grace where offense once stood. Humble Service - Serve because you are righteous, not to become righteous. - Celebrate others’ gifts; boasting dies when righteousness is a gift (Romans 3:27). Bold Witness - Share the gospel as news, not advice: God credits righteousness apart from works. - Tell your story—“bankrupt yet fully credited”—for authenticity. Holy Living from a New Identity - “Put on the new self” daily (Ephesians 4:24); behave in line with who you already are. - Fight temptation: “That isn’t who I am; I’m clothed in Christ.” Guardrails Against Self-Righteousness - Reject pride; the credit is entirely outside yourself. - Stay near the cross; reflection on Christ’s sacrifice dismantles comparison. - Gently refute teaching that adds human merit to Christ’s finished work (Galatians 2:21). Encouragement for Weak Moments - After failure, revisit the ledger: “Still credited. Still righteous” (Psalm 32:1–2). - When accused, answer with Romans 8:33: “It is God who justifies.” Verses to Keep on Repeat |
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