December 7 – Focusing on God's Standards

        Psalm 89:16 – "They rejoice in [God's] name all day long; they exult in [God's] righteousness."

        This verse conveys the opposite mindset reflected in December 6th's topic. While the sinful culture should repulse us Christians, we need to have something stronger and better upon which to focus, lest we fall into despair. God is still in control and allowing man to make his own decisions.

        God's righteous standard comes from his very character, which is displayed in his reign as king of the universe. Verse 14 of this same Psalm states that "righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you." While the foundations of righteousness are crumbling around us (Psalm 11:3), what are believers supposed to do? We are to be examples of salt and light in this wicked world. Part of doing that is focusing daily – thinking deeply – on the standard of righteousness. Philippians 4:8 gives us the command "...whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things." If that reflection does not come easily, then we have to train ourselves to do so. With God's help, we can have our minds transformed, which concept appears in another command in Romans 12:2.

        Focusing on God's righteousness takes work. It is a conscious effort, a continual battle of the mind. For me, it means more meditation in God's word, and less news coverage on the TV. For you, it might mean less movie watching, and more fellowship with other believers that focuses on our purpose for living. However the focus happens, it will require a continual change on our part.