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On Righteousness - Tuesday Praise & Pray (for others) May 24, 2022

Updated: Jun 28

Matthew 6:33 is a key tenet of our P&P fellowship. The scripture tells us, But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Today, we ask ourselves what exactly is 'righteousness'?


We know what unrighteousness is because 1 John 5:17 tells us, All unrighteousness is sin... (KJV). If sinful behavior is unrighteousness, then righteousness is godly behavior. A righteous person fears the Lord and strives to obey His instructions by living a life that pleases Him.


The Bible outlines certain characteristics of the unrighteous and righteous. Ezekiel 18:5-9 - “Suppose there is a truly good man, righteous and honest. He doesn't worship the idols of the Israelites or eat the sacrifices offered at forbidden shrines. He doesn't seduce another man's wife or have intercourse with a woman during her period. He doesn't cheat or rob anyone. He returns what a borrower gives him as security; he feeds the hungry and gives clothing to the naked. He doesn't lend money for profit. He refuses to do evil and gives an honest decision in any dispute. Such a man obeys my commands and carefully keeps my laws. He is righteous, and he will live,” says the Sovereign LORD (Good News Translation).


Some of the unrighteous attributes might seem unlikely such as eating at shrines. Alas, this can happen in some Asian countries were shrines are tourist attractions and food items may be offered to guests. As for idol worship, this still happens all over the world and even right here in our 'Western' countries. Seducing the spouse of another is so common, so many of us no longer blink at adultery and the fact God deems it unrighteous. What about cheating and how many people regularly cheat others? They 'game the system' or take advantage of the poor and underprivileged. Regarding robbery, many don't flinch at taking what's not theirs.


And what about the righteous characteristics that were outlined? Are we the type of people who borrow with no intent to pay back? When last did we take time to care for the hungry and naked? Do we strive not to do evil to others? And most importantly, is obeying God's commands and laws important to us?


It is easier to remain blissfully ignorant of God's expectations, however, the heaven-minded can't afford to do that. This is why studying the Life Manual - the Bible - is so crucial. The more we study, the more it reveals how we need to live so as to be righteous in God's eyes.


Fortunately, God has given humans several ways to become and remain righteous. He even grants righteousness to those who believe in Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:11). We, therefore, don't need to feel intimidated and worry we can't achieve righteousness. Especially since Isaiah 54:17 gives us hope because the Lord spoke a promise to His children, "...their righteousness is from Me...” And what a blessing that is!


As long as we honor God, we'll get closer to the righteousness He desires from us. By His grace and to His glory we will achieve this.




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