'The Righteousness of God'

is a uniquely Christian word whose definition sometimes eludes us. Here are several ways it is used in Scripture.

First, righteousness refers to the ‘mighty acts of God’ with regards to God’s saving work. The best example is the constant reference in the Bible of the righteousness of God exhibited in His deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. Do you hunger and thirst for the righteousness of God in the lives of your family members, friends, and enemies?

Second, righteousness refers to God’s proclamation that we are in the right relationship with Him. It doesn’t mean God chooses us because we have reached an ethical standard. Rather, it is God saying, ‘you are mine. You have become my son (daughter).’ It is God’s free gift of a relationship with Him.

 Third, righteousness has to do with our response to God’s free gift. The gift of a relationship with God must be received. Our response to give our lives to the Lord results in our lives becoming like the Lord’s. Like Malachi says, righteousness will look like ‘seeking justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.’ Col 3:12 puts it like this: “as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” God’s mercy, strength, compassion, wisdom, and guidance shown to the Israelites and those in Jesus’ life sets the pattern for how we are to live righteously in our relationships with others.

Finally, righteousness results in deep peace: shalom. The righteous experience the peace that comes from living as Christ did by the power of the Holy Spirit. It creates a harmony and integrated life lived in the Light. The righteous life brings peace in the heart, soul, mind, and body. 

Righteousness is about who God is, how He calls us into a relationship with Himself, our response of living as God’s children, and fulfillment in a deep peace. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” (Matt 5:6)

Blessings in 2023,

Jonathan