Have you noticed how it seems easier for people to put you down than to praise you? The slightest error and it's picked on to make you seem small and to build themselves up? That's the world for you!

On the other hand.... Have you noticed how God concentrates on lifting us up? Satan tries to give Him a bad press but once you look for yourself at what God is doing you see how much He is on your side.

Take another look at John 16: 8-11 and see what Jesus says about righteousness..

John 16:8 And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; 10 concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; 11 concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.

Notice that Jesus says that Holy Spirit would convict us of RIGHTEOUSNESS.

When people talk about this passage they most often, I find, tell you that the Holy Spirit will convict you of unrighteousness! You can see for yourself though that is simply NOT the case! Holy Spirit brings your RIGHTEOUSNESS to your mind so that you are reminded of what you are in Christ, You are as a Christian the righteousness of God in Jesus Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:21 For he has made him, who knew no sin, to be sin for us; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

So, when you are convicted of this and put faith in Jesus and accept him as your Lord and Saviour you are made righteous with God. God sees you cloaked in the righteousness of Christ. Since Jesus has gone back to heaven, Holy Spirit in you, reminds you of your imputed righteousness, in Jesus' place!

From this standpoint (of right standing with God) you can now go forth in life to do great exploits in God's name.

You can go out and overcome all things by the blood of the lamb and the word of your testimony! (Revelation 12:11)

Best wishes for Grace and the Peace of Jesus.

Attlee.

Another thought....