" The Gift of Righteousness "

" For GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believeth on HIM should not perish but have everlasting life. "           John 3:16

Romans 5:17-19   " For if by one man's (Adam) offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by ONE, JESUS CHRIST. Therefore as by the offence of one (Adam) judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of ONE the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's (Adam) disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of ONE shall many be made righteous. "

     During the Christmas season, much of the world focused its attention on giving and receiving gifts. We often worry about sizes, colors, brands, and every other minuscule detail as we try to figure out what our friends or loved ones would enjoy. But the truth is this - an untold number of gifts will be returned or exchanged this year because they did not fit the recipient's needs in some way or another or perhaps because the gift was somehow defective. Most of us love to give our friends, family, and loved ones gifts - and most of us certainly enjoy receiving gifts as well ! - but no gift we could ever give is the " all - in - all," the one thing that is absolutely perfect, the one thing that could change someone's entire life here and for eternity.

     Yet the Good News is this: The perfect gift - the gift that will change your life forever - has been offered to you. This gift meets everybody's needs; it is the most valuable gift ever offered to anybody; it will never let anyone down; it is appropriate for everyone - from a small child to an elderly man or woman. And, most importantly, it is a gift - it is free ! What is this gift ? It is the " gift of righteousness " (v.17) that enables us to possess eternal life and a relationship with GOD. Have you received this gift ? Are you standing before GOD clothed in your own sins or clothed in the righteousness of JESUS CHRIST ? While the world is focused upon gifts at this time of year, we must remember that GOD has given us the greatest gift that anyone could ever give - HIS OWN SON as the sacrifice for your sin (Romans 6:23; John 3:16). Today, make sure that you have received this gift and then take the time to thank GOD for HIS unspeakable gift ! MDC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

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