Since they did not know the righteousness of God and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. Romans 10:3
Paul talked about the Israelites were very zealous for God. They wanted to be God’s people, so they sought out how to be righteous before God on their own. They would not submit to the righteousness of God–that is Jesus.
All over the world there are many people who claim to believe in God. They are quick to say that they have a belief in God. Many will say that they believe that they will get into heaven.
When asked why they will get into heaven, many will say because they are a good person, never killed anyone and believe in God. They believe that their own works will get them into heaven.
Many in the church believe in the same way, they believe that they are righteous because of what they do. They go to church, read the bible, and are a good person.
Both are looking at salvation by their own personal works. Yet, getting into heaven is impossible for anyone apart from Jesus. He is the one who is righteous and makes a person righteous.
Others will believe in Jesus, but will add that a person must do certain things to get into heaven. If they do not read five chapters of the bible everyday, memorize a bunch of scripture, go to church every Sunday, then they are not saved. In the same way they are trying to make themselves righteous.
Every person needs the righteousness of Jesus in his life. Only Jesus is perfectly righteous and He extends that righteousness to every one who believes in Him and submits to Him.
As a believer, you must be willing to submit to God’s righteousness in Jesus and then strive to live like He did. You do the works to prove your submission to Jesus, but not to earn your salvation or righteousness. Love God, by doing what He wants and fleeing all sin, not by earning your salvation.
Trust that Jesus is making you righteous before God. He has removed your sins and makes you clean. Do not try to establish your own righteousness, you will fall short in the end.
Everything you do should be out of belief in Jesus and what He has done for you. Submit today and know His salvation and righteousness.
I pray today that you will know the salvation Jesus provides; that you will know the righteousness Jesus provides; that you will not seek to earn your salvation; and that you will know the forgiveness Jesus gives you.