Fruit Of Righteousness

Read: Psalm 72

May the mountains yield prosperity for all, and may the hills be fruitful. Psalm 72:3

IN WORD

God loves righteousness and justice for their own sakes. They represent His nature and are a comfort to His people. But they go further than that. They have ripple effects. When righteousness and justice are expressed in the land, the land bears fruit in greater measure.

That’s what this psalm—and many Scriptures—tell us emphatically. We don’t like to think of a cause-and-effect relationship between our sin and the land’s fruitlessness, but there seems to be a solid connection in God’s Word. The rest of this psalm spells it out—the righteous flourish, prosperity abounds, grain grows, and crops thrive (verses 7 and 16). God promises blessing to groups of people who line up with His nature.

Does this mean trials, tribulations, and suffering are always the result of some sin on our part? Of course not. The righteous often suffer in this world simply because they live in a fallen world. It does mean, however, that eventually and increasingly, aligning with God’s nature has benefits for communities and cities and countries. We don’t earn His favor, but we can certainly position ourselves to receive it. He loves to support those who seek His Kingdom.

IN DEED

This is no license for legalism. It’s entirely possible to conform outwardly to the letter of the law and have a heart that’s far from God. No, this is about seeking His Kingdom above all else, internally and externally. When the King’s heart beats within us, especially at a corporate level, blessings follow. Why? Because those who become like Him also become a vessel for Him. He rides into our world on the roads we establish in our hearts. He responds to faith. He calls His royal children to welcome the ways of their Father.

Be a Kingdom person in your community. Bless. Serve. Demonstrate righteousness—not judgmental moralism but the merciful heart of the King. See what God does. Sooner or later, there will be fruit.

ADDITIONAL READING: Isaiah 55:12

When Christians stand up for righteousness and justice, they evidence the power of the living God.

CHARLES COLSON