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THE CHARGE TO ADVANCE PROGRESSIVELY IN RIGHTEOUSNESS

The world today is filled with chaos, injustice, and immorality but in the midst of these, our Heavenly Father is not tired of providing guidance and direction. His charge to us His children still remains to advance progressively in righteousness. The charge to live a righteous life is not a mere suggestion or a casual invitation, but rather a compelling mandate from the Creator of the universe. By adhering to God’s Word and seeking His guidance, believers can navigate the complexities of life while making significant contributions that proffer solutions that engender the advancement of a better life for the people living within our immediate environment as well as ultimately transformation of neighbouring communities in manners which typifies a magnificent grandeur of productivity in our world.


The third person in the Trinity, specifically, the Holy Spirit, democratizes the freedom to access the divine truths deft enough to make a man wise unto understanding the intricacies of righteous living. Thereby, providing the essential guidance required. In Psalm 119:11, the psalmist declares, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Hiding the word of God in our hearts is an adroit act which can only be secured and sustained by the Holy Spirit of God. Meditating on His word and internalizing His teachings, guarantees protection against sinful tendencies. The charge to advance progressively in righteousness as stated in Matthew 5:48, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect” can easily be attained by genuinely communicating with God consistently according to the revelation of the Holy Scriptures. This acculturation process is a practice that cognitively promotes moral excellence while equipping us with the ability to discern the truth.


Furthermore, righteousness requires not only knowledge but also an application of biblical principles to daily life. James 1:22 exhorts believers, “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” It is insufficient to possess the knowledge of God’s commandments; one must consciously apply them within personal relationships, professional pursuits, and public engagements. By doing so, believers demonstrate commitment to righteousness that extends beyond mere words which culminates in transformative change.


Advancing progressively in righteousness also entails cultivating a heart of compassion and humility—a willingness to serve and uplift others, particularly the marginalized and oppressed. The charge to advocate for justice is echoed throughout Scripture. In Isaiah 1:17, God commands, “Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.” This verse emphasizes the significance of using individual privileges, resources, and abilities to alleviate the burdens of those who are vulnerable, without compromising God’s standard of Holiness.


Moreover, the charge to advance progressively in righteousness necessitates a fervent pursuit of personal holiness. 1 Peter 1:15-16 states, “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” Living a righteous life is not conforming to societal norms but aligning one’s thoughts, actions, and speech with the character and standards of a holy and righteous God. This commitment to holiness requires constant self-examination, repentance, and dependence on the Holy Spirit for sanctification.


In conclusion, the charge to advance progressively in righteousness is an essential aspect of every believer’s spiritual journey. It is an invitation to embrace God’s Word, faithfully applying its teachings to transform personal lives and impact society. By immersing oneself in the Scriptures, living out its principles, demonstrating compassion, and pursuing personal holiness, believers become catalysts for positive change in a world desperately in need of the righteousness of Jesus Christ. Therefore, let us as believers steadfastly answer this call, relying on the wisdom and guidance of the Holy Spirit of God to walk with integrity and purpose.


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