Introduction
Righteousness is a concept that’s central to our relationship with God, yet it’s often misunderstood. What does it mean to be righteous? Is it something we earn, or is it something God gives us? And how does righteousness influence the way we live?
Let’s break it down into two key aspects: Righteousness as our position before God and Righteousness as ethical living. Both are vital parts of understanding and living out our faith.
Righteousness as Our Position Before God
The foundation of righteousness is that it’s something God gives us, not something we achieve on our own. When we accept Jesus as our Savior, God declares us righteous—clean, forgiven, and in right standing with Him. This is often called imputed righteousness.
2 Corinthians 5:21 explains it beautifully:
“For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.”
This means that our righteousness doesn’t come from our own works or efforts. It comes entirely from Jesus. He took our sin upon Himself and gave us His righteousness in return.
Because of this, even when we sin, we can confidently approach God for forgiveness. 1 John 1:9 reassures us:
“But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.”
It’s not our perfection that allows us to come to God—it’s His grace. Knowing this should give us confidence to live in freedom and to seek Him, even in our failures.
Righteousness as Ethical Living
While righteousness is a position that God gives us, it’s also a calling to live in alignment with His will. Once we are made righteous through Christ, we are called to live righteously—to reflect God’s character in our daily lives.
1 Peter 1:15-16 reminds us:
“But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, ‘You must be holy because I am holy.’”
Living righteously means choosing to align our thoughts, actions, and decisions with God’s Word. It’s not about earning God’s approval but responding to the righteousness He’s already given us.
Practical Examples of Righteous Living
What does living righteously look like in real life? Here are a few practical examples:
- Forgiveness Instead of Bitterness:
When someone wrongs you, righteousness calls you to forgive as God has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32 says:”Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” - Integrity in Everyday Choices:
Choosing honesty in your words and actions, even when it’s inconvenient or costly, reflects righteous living. Proverbs 21:3 teaches:”The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just than when we offer him sacrifices.” - Loving Others as Christ Loved Us:
Righteousness involves treating others with love, compassion, and respect. John 13:34 calls us to:”Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.” - Standing for Justice and Truth:
Righteous living often means speaking up for what’s right and defending those who cannot defend themselves. Micah 6:8 summarizes this beautifully:”He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Why Righteousness Matters
Living righteously is not just about personal morality—it’s about reflecting God’s character to the world. When we live according to His righteousness, we become a light in the darkness, drawing others to Him.
Jesus said in Matthew 5:16:
“In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”
Our righteous living is a response to the righteousness God has given us. It’s an act of worship, a way of saying, “Thank You, God, for making me right with You. Now let me live in a way that honors You.”
A Call to Live Righteously
Righteousness is both a gift and a calling. God makes us righteous through Jesus, giving us the confidence to approach Him without fear. And in response, we are called to live righteously, reflecting His character in our actions and choices.
Wherever you are in your faith journey, remember this: God has already declared you righteous. Now, step into that truth by living it out each day. Let righteousness guide your heart, shape your actions, and bring glory to God in all you do.
