The Lord is Righteous and Kind

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Scripture: Psalm 145:17 (ESV)

17          The Lord is righteous in all his ways

and kind in all his works.

Devotion:

How do we know that God is good? How can we trust that he has our best interests at heart? How can we see his kindness in the midst of a broken and hurting world?

The psalmist answers these questions by declaring that the Lord is righteous and kind in all his ways and works. This means that everything God does is consistent with his perfect character, holy justice, and tender mercy. For instance, when we experience a beautiful sunrise, we witness God's kindness in providing us with a new day. He never acts out of malice, caprice, or indifference. He never violates his own standards or promises. He always does what is right, fair, and loving, providing a reliable source of goodness in our lives.

This truth gives us hope and confidence in every situation. We can rely on God's goodness when we face trials, temptations, or troubles. We can rejoice in God's goodness when we experience blessings, joys, or victories. We can worship God's goodness when we contemplate his creation, his salvation, or his glory.

But how can we know this goodness personally and intimately? How can we taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalm 34:8)? The answer is found in Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate expression of God's righteousness and kindness. He is the one who perfectly fulfilled God's law and will, who died for our sins and rose again, who reconciled us to God and gave us eternal life. He is the bridge that connects us to God's goodness, inviting us to come to him and find rest, peace, and grace, fostering a deep and personal connection with God's goodness.

If we want to know God's goodness, we must know Jesus. He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). He is the image of the invisible God, the radiance of his glory, and the exact imprint of his nature (Colossians 1:15; Hebrews 1:3). He is the one who loves us with an everlasting love and who will never leave us nor forsake us (Romans 8:38-39; Hebrews 13:5).

Prayer:

            Dear Lord, I know that you love your creation. You loved it so much that you gave the life of your only Son, Jesus Christ, to die and be raised again from the grave to live forever with you in heaven. We can only praise your name for all your righteousness and kindness toward us. Fill us with your Holy Spirit so we may live in a way that pleases you. May we glorify your name now and forever more. Amen.

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