Title
The Good News of Righteousness
Scripture
I have proclaimed the good news of righteousness in the great assembly; Indeed, I do not restrain my lips, O Lord, You Yourself know.
(Psalm 40:9)
Devotional
Take note of the phrase, "The good news of righteousness." Righteousness to some is a burden; it is antagonistic to their desires and way of life, but to those who have tasted of its fruit, it is very good.
The preaching and proclaiming of the Word of God is to be done in this manner. It is to be spoken of as "good news." As the angel said at the birth of Christ to the shepherds, "I bring you good news of great joy,"(1) we are to proclaim the same. We have the good news of the gospel. We have the only hope for mankind. Let us not present it in a manner of gloom, doom and despair, but with joy, enthusiasm and hope. It is not, "turn or burn," but "turn and learn." Learn "How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"(2) Let us not keep silent. Let our churches be filled with this proclamation of "the good news of righteousness."
(1) Luke 2:10 NIV, (2) Psalm 133:1