In this series on Growing in Character, we’re finding that several of the different characteristics from Galatians 5:22-23 are very similar. Last week we studied kindness, which seems very similar to goodness. In fact, I wasn’t even sure how to write this weeks article! From digging into the Word and different resources I’ve come to these conclusions:

Kindness is motivated by our love for others.

Goodness is motivated by our love for God.

Kindness is what we do.

Goodness is what we are.

Kindness is love in action.

Goodness is righteousness in action.





What is Righteousness?



Does the word righteousness make you feel a little uneasy? Perhaps the first phrase that comes to mind is ‘self-righteous’ which brings up the image of a person who acts as though they are morally superior to others. This person would proclaim “I am a good person! Look at all the good things I do!” THIS is not righteousness, it’s arrogance. You can do ‘good deeds’ and not actually be a ‘good’ person, or a righteous person.



The Greek word for Righteousness is dikaiosýnē which means ‘divine approval’ and refers to what is deemed right to the Lord after his examination. Simply put, righteousness is being in good standing with God.



That sounds like a tall order. I don’t know if you’ve ever read the Bible, but there is a LOT of information in there about how to live a godly life that conforms to the standard of God. There is no amount of good deeds that you can do to earn the title of righteousness. Here’s the good news, God GIVES you the title of righteousness when you believe by faith that Jesus took your sin at the cross.

You cannot become righteous, because Jesus has already put a robe of HIS righteousness around you.

 

Titus 3:5 says, “But – When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. Because of his grace, he declared us righteous and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.”

I’m no Bible scholar, but from that reading, I would conclude that our response to God declaring us righteous is to devote our lives to doing good for the benefit of others.



Therefore, goodness is not just motivated by our love for God, but goodness is who we are because we love God.

“Be Good!”

I’m sure we’ve all dropped our kid off to school or grandmas and reminded them to “Be Good!” In those moments, we’re not actually telling them to ‘be a good person’ or questioning their character. As their parent, we know that they are good. We’re reminding them to be obedient and not act crazy! We’re reminding them that they ARE good and to make sure their behavior shows it.

On the hard days when I feel disappointed in the choices my kids have made I remind myself that they are good kids. I know their character, and I believe that they are growing and maturing every day so that their outward behavior matches who they are on the inside.

I believe that is what Jesus did for us when he sat down at the right hand of the Father. He said, “I know that Erika is good, even if her behavior doesn’t show it.” Praise you Jesus for being my advocate. Thank you for clothing me in your righteousness and instructing me in ways that I can ‘be good’ so that my outward behavior matches who I already am on the inside.



Righteousness for a believer is almost so simple, it’s hard to believe.

You’re good, so be good.  



What a life giving, simple concept! It’s the being good part that isn’t always so simple!

What is good?

The definition of ‘good’ can be subjective! Think about what makes a ‘good mom’, ‘good boss’, ‘good friend’ or ‘good teacher’. My idea of good might be different from yours. My idea of what makes me a ‘good mom’ might be different than my kid’s idea. So who’s right? On some level, I think that we project our own needs onto the people around us to determine if they are good based on whether or not our needs have been met.

Here’s an example… my child might have a learning disability that makes it harder for them to read. If their teacher doesn’t have the skill set or isn’t intentional about meeting their unique set of needs, I might be tempted to think they are a ‘bad teacher’ when in reality they are a great teacher! 

For a Biblical perspective of ‘what is good’ let’s go right to the source of truth:

In Genesis 1 God looks at creation and proclaims, “It is good!” In this context, goodness represents completion and perfection. 

Psalm 107:1 Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love endures forever! Goodness loves unconditionally.

Psalm 31: 19-20 How great is the goodness you have stored up for those who fear (respect) you. You lavish it on those who come to you for protection, blessing them before the watching world. You hide them in the shelter of your presence, safe from those who conspire against them Goodness protects and blesses.

Psalm 86:5 “For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, And abundant in loving kindness to all who call upon You.” Goodness forgives.

1 Chronicles 16:34 “O give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; For His loving kindness is everlasting.” Goodness expresses itself in kindness.

Romans 12:21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Goodness overcomes evil.

Psalm 34:14 Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. Goodness pursues peace.

Matthew 5:15-16 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Goodness brings glory to God

Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, bu