Embracing Righteousness and Divine Mystery in Our Spiritual Journey (03/12/'24) -Statement

Embracing Righteousness and Divine Mystery in Our Spiritual Journey In our spiritual endeavors, it is paramount to prioritize the pursuit of the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, as encouraged in Matthew 6:33. This pursuit transcends mere adherence to rules; it invites us to align our lives with the profound values and principles of the divine. Tacitus, with his insight that the desire for righteousness surpasses all noble endeavors, echoes the depth of this commitment. Our journey towards righteousness is inherently a battle against internal adversaries—bad conscience and evil desires. Recognizing that rebelling against these forces equates to obedience to God reveals the essence of our spiritual struggle and growth. This path is illuminated by scriptures such as Matthew 5:6, 3:2, 13:44-46, which provide guidance and strength. Furthermore, the story of John the Baptist, as misunderstood by Herod the tetrarch, who believed Jesus to be John resurrected, thus attributing miraculous powers to him (Matthew 14:1-2), highlights the mystery and might of Jesus' ministry. This narrative, along with references in Mark 6:14; Matthew 16:14; 3:1; Luke 9:7, invites us to explore the profound impact and significance of Jesus' works. It underscores the transformative power of faith and the divine's active presence in our lives. By embracing these insights, we are called to a deeper reflection on our spiritual path, recognizing the challenges but inspired by the promise of divine guidance and empowerment. This journey towards righteousness and understanding of divine power is not just a personal quest but a shared endeavor that enriches our collective spiritual wisdom and connection. Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 12, 2024)