Romans 10:3 (KJV) 

3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.

We all have a tendency to establish our own standards of righteousness instead of submitting to God's righteousness. This verse highlights the danger of relying on our own sense of what is right and just, rather than embracing the righteousness that God provides through faith in Jesus Christ.

Paul wrote 14 books in the new testament and had 10,000 teachers but still so many people around him believe they were better. He preached the gospel day and night yet still people thought they were more spiritual than he was.

Many people, both in Paul's time and today, believe they can achieve righteousness through their own efforts, moral codes, or religious practices. Deep in the center of their hearts, they think the way the feel and think is better than those who have devoted their lives to Christianity.

They fail to recognize that God's standard of righteousness is perfect and unattainable through human effort alone. God has given his servants the tools to see his secrets. God has also established a heirarchy and wants to work through those spiritual levels. But many people live in front of people with their own righteousness.

As Paul mentions, they want to establish their own righteousness because the righteousness of God through the gospel is not enough.

This often leads to self-righteousness, pride, and a judgmental attitude towards others. It’s a mindset that says, "I'm a good person and can make myself acceptable to God by performing these deeds." However, this approach not only falls short but also contradicts the very nature of God's grace.

Paul points out that these individuals "have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God." Submission here means recognizing and accepting that God's way is the only way to true righteousness and happiness. Sadly people still want to establish their own peace. 

We must be honest with ourselves, admitting our inability to meet God's standards on our own. Only then can we place our faith in Jesus Christ, who provides the tools to live righteously. 

Submitting to God’s righteousness also involves listening to and learning from His servants, who are called to teach, guide, and shepherd His people. Spiritual leaders are placed in our lives to help us grow in our faith and understanding of God’s ways. Ignoring their guidance can lead us down a path of self-reliance and away from the truth of the Gospel.

Submitting to those who are seasoned in faith fosters humility, gratitude, and a deeper reliance on God’s grace. As we submit to His righteousness and the guidance of His servants, we grow in our faith and become more effective witnesses of His love and grace.

I would like for all of us to do some deep reflection today. Reflect on areas in your life where you might be relying on your own standards of righteousness. Are you trying to earn God’s favor through your actions? Consider the role of spiritual mentors and leaders in your life. Are you open to their guidance and teaching? Take time today to surrender your self-made standards to God and embrace His righteousness. Seek out and submit to the wisdom of Godly leaders who can help you grow in your faith. Thank you all for reading.

Amen!