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possessions'. A glance at Isa. 32: 17 will show that what we have been considering
in verse 18 is the `possessing' of possessions which are there described.
"And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness,
quietness and assurance for ever" (Isa. 32: 17).
Peace, and all its association, is the outcome of righteousness. Without a righteous
basis there can be no true peace; there will be a compromise at the best which will break
at the smallest strain. This is universally true; as true for the nations today as for Israel
of old, and true for the Church for all time. The N.T. speaks of "The peaceable fruit of
righteousness" (Heb. 12: 11).
"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus
Christ" (Rom. 5: 1).
With Isa. 32: 17, 18 before us, we might well ask ourselves how far we have
`taken possession' of this gift of grace. Peace, assurance, sure dwelling places, quiet
resting places, all are ours, for Christ is our righteousness, and "the work of righteousness
shall be peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance for ever". Do we,
in particular, possess our possessions? Is our abiding place characterized by quietness
and assurance? Has the work and the effect of righteousness been realized in our own
experiences?