How can we apply "according to my righteousness" in our daily decisions? Primary Scripture “The LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands He has repaid me.” (Psalm 18:20) What “My Righteousness” Means • Not self-made virtue but a life ordered in line with God’s revealed standards (Psalm 18:21-24) • Lived obedience that flows from faith (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4:3) • Evidenced by “clean hands” — outward deeds that match an inward loyalty (Job 27:6; James 1:22) Why Righteousness Belongs in Daily Decisions • God weighs choices, motives, and actions (Proverbs 21:2) • Rewards and consequences are tied to obedience (Psalm 19:11; 1 Corinthians 3:14) • A righteous pattern brings clarity and peace (Isaiah 32:17; Philippians 4:9) Everyday Moments Where the Principle Applies • Speech – Choose words that build up, refuse slander (Ephesians 4:29; Proverbs 10:19) • Money – Handle resources with honesty and generosity (Proverbs 11:1; 2 Corinthians 9:7) • Work – Serve “not only to be seen, but as servants of Christ” (Colossians 3:22-24) • Relationships – Forgive quickly, pursue reconciliation (Matthew 5:23-24; Ephesians 4:32) • Media and entertainment – Fix eyes on what is pure and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8; Psalm 101:3) Practical Habits for Walking “According to My Righteousness” • Daily Scripture intake – “Your word is a lamp to my feet” (Psalm 119:105) • Prayerful examination – Invite God to search heart and motives (Psalm 139:23-24) • Immediate obedience – Act promptly when conviction comes (James 4:17) • Accountability – Walk with believers who speak truth in love (Hebrews 10:24-25; Proverbs 27:17) • Steward the small choices – Faithfulness in little prepares for larger trust (Luke 16:10) Grace and Responsibility Together • Christ is our perfect righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21) • His finished work empowers our daily obedience (Galatians 2:20; Titus 2:11-12) • We pursue holiness, knowing reward is by grace yet “according to” actual faith-filled conduct (1 Peter 1:15-17; Revelation 22:12) Encouragement to Persevere • The path of the righteous “shines ever brighter” (Proverbs 4:18) • God remembers labor done for His name (Hebrews 6:10) • “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap” (Galatians 6:9) |