1.1 Defining Righteousness: Righteousness is the quality of being morally right or justifiable in the eyes of God. It is a state of moral purity that aligns with God's standards. Romans 3:22
1.2 The Source of Righteousness: God is the source of righteousness. It is not something we can achieve on our own, but a gift that is given to us through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 3:21-22
1.3 The Importance of Righteousness: Righteousness is important because it is the standard by which God judges us. It is also the means by which we can have a relationship with Him. Matthew 5:6
2.1 Acknowledging Our Need: The first step to cultivating a thirst for righteousness is acknowledging our need for it. We must recognize our sinfulness and our inability to achieve righteousness on our own. Romans 3:23
2.2 Seeking God: We cultivate a thirst for righteousness by seeking God with all our heart. This involves spending time in prayer, reading and meditating on His Word, and seeking His presence in our daily lives. Jeremiah 29:13
2.3 Desiring Righteousness: We must also develop a deep desire for righteousness. This desire should be greater than our desire for worldly pleasures or achievements. Psalm 42:1
3.1 Repentance: Living righteously begins with repentance. We must turn away from our sins and turn towards God. Acts 3:19
3.2 Obedience: Living righteously also involves obedience to God's commands. We must strive to live according to His Word and His ways. 1 John 2:29
3.3 Faith: Living righteously requires faith. We must trust in God's righteousness and rely on His strength to help us live righteously. Romans 1:17
4.1 Endurance: Persevering in righteousness requires endurance. We must remain steadfast in our pursuit of righteousness, even when faced with trials and temptations. James 1:12
4.2 Dependence on God: Persevering in righteousness also requires dependence on God. We must rely on His strength and guidance to help us remain righteous. Philippians 4:13
4.3 Hope: Persevering in righteousness requires hope. We must keep our eyes fixed on the eternal reward that awaits those who thirst for and pursue righteousness. Galatians 6:9