Righteousness; doing what's good and right

 Here's a blog-style commentary inspired by Matthew 5:6:

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." (Matthew 5:6)

Hungering for What Is Right

In a world where doing the right thing is not always the easiest thing, Jesus offers a powerful promise in Matthew 5:6. He compares the desire for righteousness to hunger and thirst, two of the strongest needs we experience as human beings. Just as our bodies crave food and water, God wants our hearts to crave what is good, right, and pleasing to Him.

Righteousness is more than simply following rules. It is a sincere desire to live according to God's will, treating others with kindness, acting with integrity, and choosing truth even when it costs us something. It means seeking what is right because it honors God, not because it earns applause from others.

Doing the right thing can sometimes feel unrewarded. People may not notice our honesty. Choosing kindness over revenge may seem unfair. Standing for truth may even bring criticism. Yet Jesus reminds us that those who truly hunger and thirst for righteousness will be "filled." God sees every faithful choice, and He satisfies the hearts of those who seek Him.

Pursuing righteousness also shapes our character. Every time we choose honesty over deception, forgiveness over bitterness, or love over selfishness, we become a little more like Christ. These choices build trust, strengthen relationships, and bring a deep sense of peace that cannot be found through shortcuts or compromise.

The blessing Jesus describes is not only for the future. Even now, there is joy in knowing that we are walking in God's ways. While perfection remains beyond our reach, the desire to do what is right keeps us growing closer to Him. When our hearts long for righteousness, God promises to meet that desire and guide us on the path He has prepared.

Doing the right thing may not always be the easiest path, but according to Jesus, it is always the blessed one. Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will discover that God fills their lives with purpose, peace, and the assurance that their faithful efforts are never in vain.

Wisdom & Foolishness - Proverbs

Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)
"Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm."

Commentary

Proverbs 13:20 teaches a simple but powerful truth: the people we spend time with influence who we become. Solomon contrasts two paths. Those who choose the company of wise people grow in wisdom, while those who closely associate with foolish people eventually experience negative consequences.

The verse begins with a promise: "Walk with the wise and become wise." In the ancient world, walking with someone implied sharing life with them, learning from them, and adopting their habits and values. Wisdom is not gained merely through information but through relationships. When we spend time with people who fear God, make thoughtful decisions, and pursue righteousness, their influence helps shape our character.

The second half offers a warning: "a companion of fools suffers harm." Notice that Solomon does not say a person must become a fool to be affected by foolishness. Simply choosing close companionship with those who reject wisdom can lead to trouble. Foolish behavior often brings consequences such as damaged relationships, poor choices, financial problems, or spiritual decline, and those who stay close to such influences may be drawn into the same outcomes.

Deeper Spiritual Meaning

This proverb highlights the importance of intentional friendships. Throughout Scripture, God uses relationships to shape His people. Jesus gathered disciples to walk with Him daily. Paul encouraged believers to imitate godly examples. Our hearts, attitudes, and priorities are often molded by the people we admire and spend the most time with.

This verse is not teaching believers to avoid all contact with unbelievers or struggling people. Jesus Himself spent time with sinners. Rather, it warns against allowing ungodly influences to become our primary source of counsel, identity, and direction.

Application

Consider these questions:

• Who has the greatest influence on your thinking?
• Do your closest friends encourage your faith and growth?
• Are there relationships that consistently pull you away from God's wisdom?
• Are you becoming the kind of wise person who can positively influence others?

For those continuing a college journey, this verse may be especially relevant. The people you study with, follow online, and seek advice from can significantly affect your goals, faith, and character. Choosing mentors, friends, and communities that reflect godly wisdom can help you grow both spiritually and personally.

Reflection

"Lord, help me to seek the company of wise and godly people. Give me discernment in my relationships, and make me a source of wisdom and encouragement to others. Amen."

Hubby & I

"For Better or For Worse"

Option 1: Reflective

"For better or for worse" sounded like a simple promise when we first said it, but over the years I've learned just how meaningful those words really are. Sixteen years together has brought both joyful moments and difficult seasons, yet through it all we've continued to choose each other. That's what love looks like to me, not perfection, but commitment through every chapter.

Option 2: Faith-Focused

The phrase "for better or for worse" isn't just part of wedding vows. It's a commitment to walk through life's blessings and challenges side by side. Looking back on nearly 16 years together, I'm grateful for God's faithfulness through every season and for the love that has helped us keep moving forward together.

Option 3: Simple and Heartfelt

For better or for worse, we've shared 16 years of life together. Not every day has been easy, but every season has helped shape our story. As we look ahead to 17 years, I'm thankful for the memories we've made and the journey we're still on together. ❤️

Maybe Possibly the "When we met" date. Sometime around there.

16 Years and Counting ❤️ Soon to be 17

Today I'm sharing a few photos of my husband and me, along with our "My Love" timer app photos showing just how long we've been together. It's amazing to see the days, months, and years add up and realize how much life we've shared.

Over the past 16 years we've celebrated joys, faced challenges, grown as individuals, and built a life together one day at a time. Looking back, I'm grateful for the memories we've made, the lessons we've learned, and the love that has carried us through every season.

As we get closer to our 17th year together, my heart is full of gratitude. Time moves quickly, but some things only grow stronger with it. Here's to the years behind us and all the adventures still ahead.

💕 16 years together and counting. Soon we'll be celebrating 17. 💕