Righteousness is one of those biblical words that can mean a lot of things to a lot of people. Often righteousness is defined more by the traditions of the churches or religious movement we are a part of (e.g. don’t lie, steal, commit adultery, drink alcohol, dance, play cards, smoke, etc.) than by what the Word of Elohim actually teaches. Have you wondered what the word righteousness really means?
In this study, we have attempted to look up nearly all 297 references in Scripture to righteousness, then list the main scriptures that capture the quintessential meaning of righteousness and then categorize them topically. By this means, we hope to let the Bible itself define righteousness instead of men’s traditions and religious philosophies.
It behooves us to know what righteousness is, since Yeshua declared that those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled, and that those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake will inherit the kingdom of heaven (Matt 5:6 and 10). Additionally, he commands us to “seek first the kingdom of Elohim and his righteousness” (Matt 6:33). Elsewhere the Scriptures tell us that “the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of Elohim” (1 Cor 6:9). Yeshua also taught that it was necessary for the righteousness of his disciples (and us) to exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees (Matt 5:20). What did he mean by this? And finally, in Revelation 19:7–9 the bride of Yeshua is described as wearing “fine linen, clean and bright” garments which is “the righteous acts of the saints” (NKJV). Notice it doesn’t say “righteous beliefs,” but righteous acts.” What are the righteous acts of the saints?
To continue reading, go to https://www.hoshanarabbah.org/pdfs/righteous.pdf
Who said can’t play cards ,smoke ,drink alcohol are those commandments? Perhaps one of those Church oral laws right? What makes me laugh is that many Christians criticize fellow brethren for doing the fore mentioned things and sin ten times worse in some other aspect of their lives.Like stealing for instance. Most people consider stealing as having to do with money but stealing can mean stealing time from your company by doing personal things on the companies time clock or stealing supplies from work for your personal gain. You see we all fall short of the Glory of God.Many, and I mean many,Christians are absolute hypocrites.I really don’t think we have to worry about a game of cards in the big scope of things but I’m open for criticism it seems that Christians do that best.
Righteousness is whatever God says it is. And He has given us His instructions in righteousness by giving us His Torah laws.
Scripture infers that Yeshua drank wine and His first miracle was turning water into wine. He wouldn’t have done it if drinking wine was a sin.
However, drinking excessively might well be a sin or leading to sinful behavior. Same thing with dancing; it can be pleasing to God or sinful if done in a sexual way etc.
Being addicted to something seems to me a two edged sword. One could see it as idolatry of one’s physical body or one could see it as a demonic hold over a person, which could be very hard to break lose from. Fortunately, all things are possible with God.
Personally, I love playing games including cards and I do teach our grandchildren. But again, one needs to be balanced. I find it relaxing and get much enjoyment from it. However, it can also cause strife and could be seen as wasting ones time. I believe, God will require from us how we used the time and resources He gave us. There is a time for everything.
Love to all,
Sonja