Live a Righteous Life
Righteousness is one of the key principles that define a true believer’s walk with God. In his powerful sermon, Live a Righteous Life, Apostle Michael Mband emphasizes that righteousness is not just about religious observance but a way of life that aligns with God’s holiness, truth, and purpose.
In a world filled with temptations and moral decay, living righteously can seem challenging, but it is essential for anyone who desires to walk closely with God. The Bible clearly states that righteousness exalts a nation, but sin brings disgrace (Proverbs 14:34). This principle applies to individuals as well—those who live righteously experience God’s favor, blessings, and ultimate inheritance in His kingdom.
Apostle Mband’s message reminds believers that righteousness is a calling and a command, not an option. Through Scripture, he lays out the importance of righteousness, how to attain it, and the benefits that come from living a righteous life.
What is Righteousness?
The word righteousness means being morally upright, living in a way that is pleasing to God, and following His commands. It is not merely about good deeds but a heart that desires to obey God in all aspects of life.
Apostle Mband references Matthew 5:6, where Jesus says:
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
This shows that righteousness is something we should long for and seek after. It is not just about avoiding sin, but actively pursuing a life that reflects God’s holiness.
The Bible also defines righteousness as faith in Christ rather than personal effort. In Romans 3:22, Paul writes:
“This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.”
This means that while good works are important, true righteousness begins with faith in Jesus and is lived out through obedience to God’s Word.
Why is Righteousness Important?
1. It is a Requirement for the Kingdom of God
Apostle Mband strongly emphasizes that righteousness is a requirement for entering God’s kingdom. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs:
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
This means that before we chase after material things, success, or worldly pleasures, we must prioritize righteousness. It is the key to receiving God’s blessings and securing our place in His kingdom.
In addition, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 warns that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God. This includes those who live in sin without repentance.
2. It Brings Favor and Blessings
Righteousness attracts God’s favor. Psalm 5:12 declares:
“Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.”
Apostle Mband explains that when a person chooses righteousness, they walk under an open heaven. God provides, protects, and promotes those who live according to His will.
This means that living righteously positions believers for divine breakthroughs, answered prayers, and supernatural provision.
3. It Protects Us from the Enemy
Sin opens doors for the enemy to attack, but righteousness builds a spiritual shield around believers. Proverbs 10:2 states:
“Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value, but righteousness delivers from death.”
Apostle Mband warns that those who compromise in sin expose themselves to the enemy’s attacks, but those who walk in righteousness experience God’s protection.
How to Live a Righteous Life
1. Accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior
Righteousness is not something we can achieve on our own. It comes through faith in Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says:
“God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.”
This means that when we receive Christ, we are made righteous before God. However, we must continue walking in obedience to maintain our righteousness.
2. Obey God’s Word
Apostle Mband emphasizes that obedience is a sign of righteousness. Psalm 119:9 asks:
“How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to Your word.”
Reading, meditating on, and applying God’s Word helps us live righteously. We must allow the Bible to guide our daily decisions.
3. Stay Away from Sin
Sin separates us from God and robs us of righteousness. Apostle Mband points to Romans 6:13, which says:
“Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life.”
To live righteously, believers must resist sin, flee temptation, and say no to anything that does not please God.
4. Develop a Strong Prayer Life
Prayer is a tool for maintaining righteousness. Through prayer, we receive strength to overcome temptation and wisdom to make godly choices.
Apostle Mband highlights 1 Thessalonians 5:17:
“Pray without ceasing.”
A strong prayer life keeps us connected to God and helps us stay on the right path.
5. Walk in Love and Forgiveness
Righteousness is not just about avoiding sin; it is also about how we treat others. 1 John 3:10 says:
“Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.”
Apostle Mband stresses that true righteousness involves showing love, kindness, and forgiveness, just as Christ forgave us.
6. Be Filled with the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live righteously. Galatians 5:16 says:
“Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Apostle Mband urges believers to be filled with the Spirit daily, allowing Him to guide and strengthen them in righteousness.
The Rewards of Living Righteously
- Closer Relationship with God – Righteous living brings intimacy with God (James 4:8).
- Divine Favor – God blesses and honors the righteous (Psalm 84:11).
- Spiritual Authority – Righteous people have power over the enemy (Luke 10:19).
- Eternal Life – The ultimate reward of righteousness is eternal life with Christ (Matthew 25:46).
Final Words from Apostle Michael Mband
Apostle Mband concludes his message with a powerful statement:
"Righteousness is not about being perfect, but about being committed to living for God. Choose righteousness daily, and God will honor you with His presence, blessings, and eternal reward."
Living a righteous life may not always be easy, but it is the pathway to true joy, peace, and the abundant life God has promised.