So also Abraham “believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”
Galatians 3:6 NIV
Righteousness, derived from the Greek word dikaiosýnē, signifies equity and justification—the act of being declared just in the sight of God. This divine righteousness is not something we can achieve on our own (Job 9:1-2). Instead, it is a nature imputed to us through Christ at the moment of salvation. Righteousness is a gift we could never afford on our own. Christ becomes our perfect righteousness, allowing us to stand justified before God. As 2 Corinthians 5:21 states, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
Righteousness means we can stand in the presence of God without guilt or condemnation. God transforms us into His righteousness through our union with Christ. This transformation grants us direct access to the Father with boldness, free from fear (Hebrews 9:7-8, 10:19).
This righteousness comes not from our works but through faith in Christ Jesus. God credited us with righteousness by believing in Christ Jesus with our hearts, just as Abraham was by faith. Galatians 3:6-8 reminds us that God credited righteousness to Abraham because of his faith, and this same righteousness is extended to all who believe—both Jews and Gentiles—making them spiritual descendants of Abraham.
To illustrate, think of someone who receives an inheritance not because they earned it but because they belong to a family. Similarly, those who believe in God are part of Abraham’s spiritual family and receive the inheritance of righteousness.
Understanding the benefits of our righteous standing with God is crucial. The Bible promises that the path of the righteous shines brighter each day (Proverbs 4:18-19, Matthew 13:43). Likewise, God’s blessings are upon them (Psalm 5:12). The righteous can trust that God is always with them, even in the midst of troubles (Psalm 37:27-31). Also, God hears and answers their prayers (James 5:16), and they shall reign in life (Romans 5:17).
God’s presence with the righteous is unwavering. Even when they face challenges, God does not abandon them. God’s wisdom preserves and guides the righteous, ensuring their stability and security.
In conclusion, the “Gift of Righteousness” is the heritage of every believer. It is not by our merit but as a gracious gift from God through faith in Christ Jesus. This righteousness brings peace with God, freedom from condemnation, and inclusion in God’s family. Clothed in Christ’s righteousness, we stand justified before God. Likewise, He empowers us to live a life of victory and confidence in His presence.
Therefore, let us embrace this incredible gift of righteousness, living each day with the assurance that God loves and has accepted and that His righteousness shines through us.
