Righteousness, in the biblical context, refers to the quality of being morally right or justifiable in the sight of God. It is a central theme throughout the Scriptures, reflecting God's nature and His expectations for humanity. The Hebrew word for righteousness, "tsedeq," and the Greek word "dikaiosyne" both convey the idea of justice, virtue, and uprightness.

In the Old Testament, righteousness is often associated with adherence to God's laws and commandments. For instance, Genesis 15:6 states, "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This verse highlights the foundational principle that righteousness is not merely about external compliance but is deeply rooted in faith and trust in God.

The Psalms and Proverbs frequently emphasize the blessings of righteousness. Psalm 1:6 declares, "For the LORD guards the path of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish." Similarly, Proverbs 21:21 states, "He who pursues righteousness and loving devotion finds life, righteousness, and honor."

In the New Testament, righteousness takes on a more profound theological significance with the coming of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, expounds on the doctrine of righteousness through faith. Romans 3:22-24 explains, "And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no distinction, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus."

The righteousness of God is revealed in the gospel, as Paul writes in Romans 1:17, "For the gospel reveals the righteousness of God that comes by faith from start to finish, just as it is written: 'The righteous will live by faith.'" This righteousness is not earned by human effort but is a gift from God, imputed to believers through faith in Christ.

The Sermon on the Mount, delivered by Jesus, further elucidates the nature of true righteousness. In Matthew 5:6, Jesus proclaims, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." This beatitude underscores the deep longing for righteousness that characterizes the life of a believer.

Exaltation

Exaltation in the biblical sense refers to the act of being lifted up, honored, or elevated, often by God. It is a theme that runs throughout Scripture, illustrating the divine principle that humility precedes honor.

In the Old Testament, exaltation is frequently linked to God's sovereign choice and action. For example, in 1 Samuel 2:7, Hannah's prayer acknowledges, "The LORD sends poverty and wealth; He humbles and He exalts." This verse highlights God's authority over human circumstances and His ability to elevate individuals according to His purposes.

The Psalms often speak of God exalting the humble and righteous. Psalm 75:6-7 declares, "For exaltation comes neither from the east, nor from the west, nor out of the desert, but it is God who judges; He brings one down and exalts another." This passage emphasizes that true exaltation is not achieved through human ambition but is granted by God.

In the New Testament, the concept of exaltation is closely associated with the life and work of Jesus Christ. Philippians 2:9-11 describes the exaltation of Christ following His humility and obedience: "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Jesus Himself taught about the principle of exaltation through humility. In Matthew 23:12, He states, "For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." This teaching underscores the countercultural nature of God's kingdom, where true greatness is found in servanthood and humility.

The Apostle Peter also addresses the theme of exaltation in 1 Peter 5:6, urging believers, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you." This exhortation encourages Christians to trust in God's timing and His ability to lift them up according to His will.

In summary, righteousness and exaltation are deeply interconnected in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's character and His desire for His people to live in a manner that honors Him. Through faith in Christ, believers are called to pursue righteousness and trust in God's promise of exaltation in His perfect timing.