The effect of righteousness will be peace,
and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
My people will abide in a peaceful habitation,
in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.
Isaiah 32:17-18
Observation: As Isaiah talks about many things and many outcomes of many issues, he also discusses the reign of peace to come. In the end, the people of the Lord will have peace and security. They will dwell in peaceful and secure homes, and enjoy rest from the problems of the world. However, there is a context to this pleasant condition. It comes from righteousness. It is in righteousness that peace exists, and by extension a quiet and trusting calmness of life.
Application: Isaiah 32:18 is one of my special verses ... that the Lord's people will abide is peace, security, and quiet rest. However, the context is important. Righteousness is in short supply, even among God's people ... and even in my own life.
As I was taught this weekend, I fail when I actively struggle to live righteously, but I can succeed when I try to live in the spirit, and by the Holy Spirit. In that manner, I can be shown God's righteousness. And in that place of righteousness, I can then live in peace, quietness, security, and trust.
I desire to live in that place! I would desire that my home, then my community, then my town, then my region, then my nation likewise find this peace. Calm is not the way, but righteousness - in the Lord as found in Jesus and guided by the Holy Spirit - is the way.
Prayer: Lord, this day and every day, may my family and my home be a place to abide in peace. May this be a secure dwelling, and a quiet, restful place. And as this depends upon me, may I seek your righteousness, by the Holy Spirit. I desire to live by the spirit. Amen.
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