Definition: My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go: my heart shall not reproach [me] so long as I live.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible passage together! It’s a really beautiful and thoughtful statement about faith and perspective. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: Essentially, the verse means: “I firmly believe in my goodness and righteousness, and I won't lose it even if things get tough.” Let’s unpack that a bit: “My righteousness I hold fast…” – This is about your belief in being good and right. It’s not about getting praise or rewards; it’s about recognizing your own moral character as the foundation for your life. Think of it like holding onto a sturdy branch – it won't fall away easily. “…and will not let it go…” - This emphasizes that you don’t want to lose this belief. It’s a strong commitment to your values. “My heart shall not reproach me so long as I live.” – This is the key part! “Heart” in this context refers to your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. "Reproach" means to feel ashamed or embarrassed. So, "heart reproach" means feeling bad about yourself, even when things are difficult. “So long as I live” speaks to the entire duration of your life – it’s not just about surviving, but about enjoying your life and being a good person throughout it. What does this tell us about living a good life? It suggests that: Faith is important: Holding onto your belief in goodness, even when things are hard, shows faith. Resilience matters: It encourages you to not give up on your values and principles, no matter what challenges you face. Focus on the present: By focusing on living a good life now , rather than worrying about the past or future, it’s possible to maintain a positive outlook. In short, it's a powerful encouragement to trust in your own goodness and to live a life guided by your moral principles. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some examples of how this principle applies to real-life situations?