Righteousness is not just a standard, nor just a fixed state of mind as we learn from these scriptures:

But it is from Him that you have your life in Christ Jesus, Whom God made our Wisdom from God, [revealed to us a knowledge of the divine plan of salvation previously hidden, manifesting itself as] our Righteousness [thus making us upright and putting us in right standing with God], and our Consecration [making us pure and holy], and our Redemption [providing our ransom from eternal penalty for sin]. 1 Corinthians 1:30 (AMPC)

…and this is His name by which He shall be called: The Lord Our Righteousness. Jeremiah 23:6b (AMPC)

For our sake He made Christ [virtually] to be sin Who knew no sin, so that in and through Him we might become [endued with, viewed as being in, and examples of] the righteousness of God [what we ought to be, approved and acceptable and in right relationship with Him, by His goodness]. 2 Corinthians 5:21 (AMPC)

but rather a life to live, the continuing act of being in obedience, doing what pleases the Father

And He Who sent Me is ever with Me; My Father has not left Me alone, for I always do what pleases Him. John 8:29 (AMPC)

Jesus answered, If a person [really] loves Me, he will keep My word [obey My teaching]; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home (abode, special dwelling place) with him. John 14:23 (AMPC)

and living in righteousness is a choice we must individually commit to in this bent world. Make it a priority under the empowerment of the Holy Spirit (1 John 3:7-8; Rev. 22:11; Psa. 34:15-18; Psa. 5:12).

Proverbs 11:6,8-11 reels out the abiding presence of the Lord with those whose life pursuit is to please Him but more important the positive influence their lives bring to bear upon their environment.

The righteousness of the upright [their rectitude in every area and relation] shall deliver them, but the treacherous shall be taken in their own iniquity and greedy desire…The [uncompromisingly] righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked gets into it instead. With his mouth the godless man destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge and superior discernment shall the righteous be delivered. When it goes well with the [uncompromisingly] righteous, the city rejoices, but when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy. By the blessing of the influence of the upright and God’s favor [because of them] the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. Proverbs 11:6,8-11 AMPC

Is this not what we so much desire in our country today? Pursue righteousness! Selah



Pastor Afolabi Oladele