The word righteousness is used about three hundred times in the Bible. Isaiah wrote, “And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever” (Isaiah 32:17). Paul likened it to a breastplate—the most protective piece of armor (see Ephesians 6:14). And our Master said, “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled” (Matthew 5:6).
In Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, Mary Baker Eddy further elevates its importance when she notes that in Hebrews 1:9, “The cause given for the exaltation of Jesus . . . was that he ‘loved righteousness and hated iniquity’ ” (p. 313).
What is this spiritual quality that Jesus’ beatitude says will bless us?
