From the days of my youth, a fire burned within me, a fervent desire to shield and defend those dear to my heart. At first, it was family and friends, but as time marched on, I found myself standing in the gap for those who faced ridicule and injustice. Curiously, my passion for defending others stemmed from a deep-seated need for protection. It was as if I, too, longed for someone to champion my cause, to shield me with the same brand of righteousness that I was eager to uphold.

Looking back, I recognize that my judgments weren't always accurate, and my sense of righteousness was flawed. In my earnestness, I may have defended the undeserving, and my yearning for protection was often misdirected. Thankfully, time has granted me wisdom and a profound revelation: it is not my righteousness upon which I should depend. My own notions of right and wrong pale in comparison to the perfect righteousness of our Lord.

Today, I am overwhelmed with gratitude, realizing that it is His righteousness, unfaltering and pure, that I can lean on. No one else possesses such unwavering justice, no one else can plead my cause with divine precision. He is not only my defender but also my establisher and savior. In His righteousness, I have found an unshakable refuge.

Declare and draw near with your case;
Indeed, let them consult together.
Who has made this heard from of old?
Who has long since declared it?
Is it not I, Yahweh?
And there is no other God besides Me,
A righteous God and a Savior;
There is none except Me. Isaiah 45:21

When doubts cloud my mind and the chaos of this world threatens to overwhelm my soul, I find solace in the assurance that it is His righteousness, not mine, that matters. It fills my heart with immense gratitude to know that through faith in Jesus Christ, I am made righteous. God's righteousness is not something I could earn; it is a gift freely given. For this priceless gift, I offer my unceasing thanks.