The problem with trying to establish your own righteousness is that one becomes prone to scrupulosity, judgment, and pride where, on the other hand, submitting oneself to the righteousness of God means resting in the work that Christ has wrought for us.  It is resting in his shed blood for salvation.  It is resting in the Holy Spirit as own down payment for eternal life.  It is taking authority over sickness, poverty, and lack and exercising our power over all the works of the enemy.  It is living by faith.  It is a righteousness by faith not in our works lest any man should boast.

            We fulfill the Law by living in love, walking in the Spirit, and following the leading of the Spirit in all things.  Rather than being under the Law, we are under grace and we have peace with God.  Righteousness by faith apart from works means that our righteousness is not the product of effort or self will but simply moving in the Spirit and trusting everything to God.  Rather than being anxious, through prayer and supplication, we make our requests known to God and his peace guards our hearts and minds.  There is no fear in love but perfect love casts out fear.  God gives us a spirit of power, love, and sound mind.  Therefore living by faith makes all the difference between victory and defeat.  It becomes evident that we cannot keep the Law by our own willpower but as we rely on God, we fulfill the Law.  Thus it behooves us to trust in Jesus and let him mold us and fashion us according to his mercy and grace.  As we do this we gain confidence that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us, and if he hears us, we have the petitions we have required of him.

            When we have peace with God we cease from our own efforts, we speak the word in faith, and we simply rest in God's provision.  We do things with joy.  We do things in love.  We do things in the Spirit.  We live by faith and we are made righteous.  We do not earn our reward.  It is a gift accomplished by Christ and we share in his glory by faith.

            Don't attempt to merit your salvation.  Simply believe and walk in love.  When you recognize the difference you will live in victory.  Live in victory.  Live in Christ's victory.  Live in love.

amen