The letter to the Philippians shows the strong relationship Paul had with the church in Philippi. Whilst under house arrest in Rome, the members of the congregation sent Paul financial support and someone (Epaphroditus) to assist him. Paul was very grateful for both gifts but rumour had reached Philippi that Epaphroditus was seriously ill. To allay their fears, Paul decided to send him back. He also hoped to send them Timothy. The church in Philippi was free of some of the major problems Paul had encountered in other churches, particularly Corinth, so the main theme of the letter is encouragement in their walk in faith.  One word which occurs at least three times in this passage is “righteousness” and is found a lot in the rest of the bible.  Both righteousness and holiness are foundational for our relationship with God. We are to do right, to be just in every endeavour and we are to keep ourselves pure. In Leviticus 11:45 our Heavenly Father said “you will be holy for I AM Holy.” We are made righteous by faith and grace but the word “righteousness” requires action. When we are made righteous by our faith our behaviour has to change. If it does not, 1 John 2:4 says “the man who says I know him but does not do what He commands is a liar and the truth is not in him.”  The change in behaviour comes from Yahweh we are told by Paul in Romans 5: 17 and 6: 18. There is a lot each one of us can do to be a better person, but we can do so much more when faith and commitment to God brings us the gift of righteousness. This change of behaviour as a gift cannot be achieved through our own efforts. In our society today, achievement through our own efforts is promoted by encouraging self-centeredness and following our own paths. Political correctness has taken the place of honour and integrity. Paul warns against this self-righteousness as being legalistic (3:9). Spiritual righteousness is not about our achievements but it is God’s gift to humanity through Jesus’ act of love – His blood shed on the Cross – through Jesus we are loved unconditionally. When we said yes to Jesus and received Him into our lives and when we asked the Holy Spirit to anoint us, we received His precious fruit: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Gentleness, Kindness, Faithfulness, Goodness and Self Control all encapsulated in the gift of righteousness.

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Matthew 6:33 Seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness and all these things will be added to you.