What Does Righteousness Achieve?

Have you ever considered what righteousness achieves? What does it really accomplish? Jesus said that if we hunger and thirst for righteousness, we will be filled (Matthew 5:16). The word filled means satisfied. Satisfied with what?

Throughout Scripture, righteousness is defined in terms of right action, or justice, within the context of relationship. Unfortunately, humanity has long proven to be unrighteous in our treatment of one another as well as our attitude toward God. The good news of the gospel is that, because humanity has proven to be unrighteous, God took the initiative to restore righteousness, and thereby, relationship.

Paul tells us in Romans 3:21-26 (CSB), “But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been revealed… The righteousness of God is through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe… God presented (Jesus) to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so that he would be righteous and declare righteous the one who has faith in Jesus.” Through Jesus, our loving Heavenly Father has provided both righteous standing in relationship with Himself as well as the ability to relate rightly with others. Paul goes on to say in verse 27, “Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded.” Why? Because we simply receive by faith the accomplished work of Jesus Christ our Savior. Knowing we are the righteousness of Christ should produce humility.

The prophet Isaiah said we can expect a good result from righteousness. We may not experience it immediately throughout our relationships because others have a say in how our relationships flesh out (Romans 12:18). But at the very least, personally and prayerfully in relationships we can experience the impact of righteousness. “The result of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quiet confidence forever.” (Isaiah 32:17, CSB). Meditate on this for a minute. Who doesn’t want peace and confidence?

We trust God has imputed His righteousness to us through Christ (2 Cor 5:21). The question is, what is the impact of this truth in your relationship with others? And are you experiencing humility, peace and quiet confidence? If not, ask the Lord where the disparity is coming from in relation to what He has done in you. What do your words, attitudes and actions toward others show about the state of your heart?