The just (or righteous) live by obedient faith in God; therefore, the righteous have numerous unique and distinguishing characteristics and blessings—a wise mouth that is a well of life (Proverbs 10:11, 31), a tongue like choice silver (Proverbs 10:20), deliverance from trouble and death (Proverbs 11:8, 4), a fruitful life (Proverbs 11:30), an immovable foundation (Proverbs 12:3), right thoughts (Proverbs 12:5), a hatred of lying (Proverbs 13:5), a satisfied soul (Proverbs 13:25), a refuge in death (Proverbs 14:32), self-control (Proverbs 15:28), divine attendance to his prayers (Proverbs 15:29), a place of spiritual refuge and safety (Proverbs 18:10), integrity (Proverbs 20:7), boldness (Proverbs 28:1), a joyous heart (Proverbs 29:6).
Like any thing of great value, Satan offers counterfeit righteousness. In Jesus’ day, it was the scribes and Pharisees who had embraced the imitation of the genuine. Therefore, Jesus stated, “For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20).
So, when it comes to righteousness, how do you know if you have the real deal or just a cheap imitation? What are the differences between the priceless gold of genuine righteousness and the worthless fool’s gold?
Let not your heart become troubled: Jesus’ longest recorded sermon is a thorough and perfect treatise on genuine righteousness; it is called the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7).
