The Effect Of Righteousness

by J.Richmond | Category: General | Oct 1936

There is, perhaps, no principle of Scripture which we could more profitably give heed to in these days, than the principle contained in Isaiah 32. 17, where we read, "The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and confidence for ever." If righteousness is lacking, the effect of righteousness will be lacking-even the quietness and confidence in God which are greater far in value than earthly possessions or temporal prosperity. It is not promised that the effect of righteousness shall be prosperity in the things of this world; what is promised is the precious inward possession of abiding "quietness and confidence." Spiritual prosperity is inseparable from the practice of righteousness ; these things go together, and constitute a sure index of soul-health.

It cannot but be good and profitable to apply the principle of Isaiah 32. 17 to ourselves and in the light of that principle to see where we stand. Surely "the effect of righteousness " is "quietness and confidence" in God

,-is it thus with us Is it our happy experience day by day? How good to be quietly confident in God in this changing scene where we know not "what a day may bring forth." How good to be able to say with Paul, " I am persuaded, that neither death nor life,things present, nor things to come ... shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." It is, however, one thing to know this as a matter of doctrine, and another to know it inwardly. God gives the inward quietness and confidence of heart and mind, in the measure in which we walk in His ways and do His will-granted always that trustfulness accompanies obedience. There is nothing of a legal spirit in what we have advanced, it is a matter of walking with God and following after righteousness, and "The effect of righteousness "is "quietness and confidence for ever."

J.Richmond | Oct 1936
General