(2 Corinthians 5:21)
Jesus brought you into right relationship with God. Because of His atoning work on the Cross, you are now accepted into God’s family as if you had never sinned. When you know that you are right with God through faith in what Jesus did, then fear and anxiety have no place in your life.
In His death, burial, and resurrection, Jesus took your sin so you could have His righteousness. The moment you believe in Jesus Christ and accept Him as your Savior and Lord, you are made the righteousness of God in Christ. (2 Cor. 5:21.)
Many years ago when we were traveling in ministry, the Lord dealt with me to preach on righteousness every night in a church. You see, when people feel condemned, unworthy, and unrighteous, their faith won’t work. They won’t receive healing in their marriages, in their bodies, or in their finances. A chief elder of this church sat on the front row during the services. However, he did not agree with the teaching on righteousness. While I was preaching, he would say aloud, “No, no.”
Thank God that the entrance of His Word gives light. (Ps. 119:130.) About the fourth night that I was preaching on righteousness, something went off inside of him; and he said out loud, “Praise God. It’s by faith!”
You are righteous in Jesus Christ by faith. An understanding of your righteousness in Him will free you of all fear and enable you to boldly go into the throne room of God. (Heb. 4:16.)
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Billy Joe Daugherty was founder and pastor of Victory Christian Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was also the founder of Victory Christian School, Victory Bible Institute and Victory World Missions Training Center. Five hundred twenty-three Victory Bible Institutes have been started in eighty-five countries around the world. He inspired individuals and ministries with his life, love and influence for more than 30 years.