Romans 14:16–17: Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
“Righteousness”’ in this verse means the same as it does in chapters 1 and 3. It means to be right with God; it means a life lived well–pleasing to Him. “Holy Spirit” goes with righteousness and refers, not to our standing, but to our walk—we are to walk in the Spirit. It is practical rather than theological. It is moral rather than oral. It is a righteousness in the Holy Spirit rather than righteousness in Christ. “Joy” is the fruit of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. Unfortunately, it is often absent from the lives of believers. There should be joy in our lives. This doesn’t mean you have to run around smiling like a Cheshire cat, but it does mean you are to have a joyful feeling deep in your heart. 1
Application
- What is it about your life that provides the best evidence that you are living in a right relationship with God?
- Is there a constant flow of joy or of frustration in your life? Read Philippians 4:4-7.
Prayer
Lord, I want to live for Your kingdom and not for the kingdom of this world.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (Romans 9-16) (electronic ed., Vol. 43). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
