Living in the Righteousness of Christ: A Reflection on Ezra 9:15
Ezra 9:15 states:
“O Lord God of Israel, You are righteous, for we are left as a remnant, as it is today. Here we are before You, in our guilt, though no one can stand before You because of this!”
This verse paints a vivid picture of humanity’s guilt before a righteous God, but it also invites us to reflect on the transformative power of Jesus Christ. For believers in the New Covenant, condemnation, guilt, and shame are no longer a part of our identity. Through Christ, we are made righteous, fully reconciled to God, and empowered to live in His victory.
From Temporary Sacrifices to Permanent Redemption
Under the Old Covenant, righteousness was a temporary state achieved through the continual sacrifice of animals. These sacrifices were a shadow of the perfect reconciliation to come. They provided partial atonement, allowing God’s people to approach Him with some measure of righteousness. However, this process was incomplete and required repetition.
In Jesus Christ, the ultimate and final sacrifice was made. His death and resurrection permanently removed the need for animal sacrifices. Instead of striving for temporary righteousness, we are granted a permanent status as new creations. Our old, sinful nature has been crucified with Christ, yet the enemy works tirelessly to deceive us into believing we are still enslaved to sin.
The Power of Agreement with Christ’s Finished Work
The way we perceive ourselves has a profound impact on how we live. If we view ourselves as hopeless sinners, bound to repeat our failures, we inadvertently reinforce those patterns in our lives. However, when we choose to align our thoughts and beliefs with the truth of Christ’s finished work, we step into the freedom, power, and authority He has given us.
Through Christ, we are the remnant—His transformed people. We carry the Holy Spirit within us, empowered to be His hands and feet in the world. Like “little Christs,” we are called to multiply His works across the globe. We are equipped to proclaim salvation, lay hands on the sick, and witness deliverance and healing through His power.
This divine plan not only overcomes the kingdom of darkness but also glorifies our Father in heaven. To walk in the fullness of this reality, we must view ourselves as God sees us: sanctified, righteous, and equipped for every good work.
Living as God’s Righteous Remnant
Unlike Ezra’s plea, we no longer stand in guilt before God. Through the blood of Jesus, our sins have been permanently exonerated. This extraordinary gift allows us to house the Holy Spirit and live in true communion with our Creator.
To thrive in this holy reality, we must agree with God’s Word and reject the lies of the enemy. By doing so, we walk in the power of the Atonement, bringing glory to God and wreaking havoc on the kingdom of darkness. Every victory we claim in Jesus’ name glorifies our Father and reminds the enemy of his defeat. Hallelujah!
A Prayer of Gratitude
Father, I am so grateful for Your perfect salvation plan. Your brilliance and love are beyond measure. Thank You for showing me my need for a Savior and for sacrificing immensely so that I could be made a new creation. I will never take Your gift for granted.
Help me to cultivate an attitude of gratitude every day, focusing on Your accomplishments and the identity You have given me. I will take every thought captive that contradicts what You say about me in Your Word. I believe I am born again, filled with Your Spirit, and empowered to do great works in Your name.
Thank You for Your love, grace, and mercy. I will worship You in Spirit and truth, praising You for Your marvelous works. I love You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.