The Breastplate of Righteousness.

          Having put on the breastplate of righteousness.
                  Ephesians 6:14b


     To understand what Paul is saying to us, we need to understand what righteousness is.
     There is that aspect of righteousness that deals with our acceptance by God. We have been justified through the shed blood of Jesus Christ, and therefore are now reconciled to God. He has forgiven us our sins, and now deals with us as if we had never sinned.
     Righteousness also consists in purity of heart. A righteous individual is one who desires to please God. It is his heart's desire to obey God, not for reward, but an obedience flowing out of love.
     It is only natural that one who desires to please God with all of his heart, will indeed do so. Works of righteousness will flow out of such a heart. This is the individual who has presented himself to God as one alive from the dead (Romans 6:13). He has become a slave of righteousness (Romans 6:16,17,18), leading to sanctification, and eternal life (Romans 6:22-23).
     This is not to say that it is our good works that lead to salvation. Salvation is a life long process to be worked out (Philippians 2:12-13). We work it out by faith. Jesus died to free us from the sinful lives that we have all lived. He died that we might bear the fruit of righteousness for His glory. A righteous life is proof that we are indeed righteous in the eyes of God (1John 2:29, 3:7).
     A breastplate protected the vital organs of a soldier. Likewise, an upright person is blessed (Psalm 5:12, 106:3). God watches over and protects those who are righteous (Psalm 37:39-40, 84:11). It is when we turn from this purity of heart, that we are the most vulnerable. We cannot expect God's favor and protection while living in disobedience to Him.
     Put on the breastplate of righteousness. Stand justified before a Holy God, through the blood of Jesus. Put on the wedding clothes of righteous deeds (Rev 19:8). Be upright in heart, and by the grace of God you will prevail.