December 21, 2022 -- Proverbs 21:21 & Luke 21:29-33 -- Journey to Christmas through Proverbs and Luke: seeking His righteousness, covenant-love and life

Whoever pursues righteousness, and kindness
   will find life, righteousness and honor.
Proverbs 21:21 ESV

And he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. 30 As soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. 31 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32 Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
Luke 21:29-33 ESV

T’is the season. You see the lights and Christmas trees and tinsel and snowmen (or is it snow-people now-a-days?). Lol. You read the times by the things you see. You know the expectations and the work that is suitable for each season. That is the point Jesus is making. When people saw the fig tree and based on the leaf-development or the fruit, knew what time of year it was and so what was required of them.

Look at the way of the world. See how good is called evil and evil is called good and know that the time of Jesus’ return is near. Those who are seeking His righteousness do not lose heart. They know such things must take place. It means that the light shining from the life of the followers of Jesus Christ shine all the brighter in these dark and difficult times.

The believer who pursues righteousness is seeking the loving-kindness of the Living God. He walks in the forgiving mercy of God and in so doing reflects the love of God in every part of life. This is not easy. It is a challenging path, staying close to God in the middle of hard times. It is hard to keep yourself in the mercy of God when people around you are not reading the times or are ignoring are the call of God and living contrary to His will and His ways. The wise read the times and seek Him while He can be found.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name, now and forever more! Thank You for Jesus Christ, the One Who left Your side and came to the earth. Thank You that He is the radiance of Your glory and the exact representation of Your nature. Thank You, Father, for the beautiful gift of Your Holy Spirit Who gives believers the discernment needed to read the times and respond in obedience to Jesus Christ. Triune God, in this Christmas Season, draw many of our unbelieving family and friends into the knowledge of Your glory, so that they will yield themselves to Jesus, ever pushing deeper into His righteousness, covenant-love and life. Amen.

https://youtu.be/kQmi_FSfJKc

Matt Redman: “His Name Shall Be”

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