Definition and Overview:
Righteous living, according to the Bible, refers to a life that aligns with God's commandments and moral laws. It involves a commitment to ethical behavior, justice, and holiness, reflecting the character of God. The pursuit of righteousness is a central theme in Scripture, emphasizing the importance of living in a way that is pleasing to God.

Biblical Foundation:
The concept of righteousness is deeply rooted in the Bible, beginning with the Old Testament. In Genesis 15:6, it is said of Abraham, "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This establishes faith as a foundational aspect of righteousness. The Law given to Moses further outlines the standards of righteous living, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:25: "And if we are careful to observe every one of these commandments before the LORD our God, as He has commanded us, then that will be our righteousness."

In the New Testament, righteousness is closely associated with faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 3:22 states, "And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe." The teachings of Jesus, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), provide a comprehensive guide to righteous living, emphasizing internal purity and love for others.

Characteristics of Righteous Living:
1. Obedience to God's Commandments: Righteous living involves adherence to God's laws and commands. Psalm 119:1-3 declares, "Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD. Blessed are those who keep His testimonies and seek Him with all their heart. They do no iniquity; they walk in His ways."

2. Faith and Trust in God: A righteous person places their faith in God, trusting in His promises and guidance. Hebrews 11:6 emphasizes, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him."

3. Moral Integrity and Justice: Righteousness involves living with integrity and seeking justice for others. Proverbs 21:3 states, "To do righteousness and justice is more desirable to the LORD than sacrifice."

4. Love and Compassion: Righteous living is marked by love for God and others. Jesus summarized the law in Matthew 22:37-39: "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’"

Rewards of Righteous Living:
1. Spiritual Fulfillment and Peace: Righteous living brings a sense of peace and fulfillment. Isaiah 32:17 promises, "The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever."

2. Divine Favor and Blessings: Those who live righteously receive God's favor and blessings. Psalm 5:12 declares, "For surely You, O LORD, bless the righteous; You surround them with the shield of Your favor."

3. Eternal Life: The ultimate reward for righteous living is eternal life with God. Romans 6:22-23 explains, "But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the fruit you reap leads to holiness, and the outcome is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

4. Answered Prayers: The prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective. James 5:16 assures, "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail."

5. Protection and Guidance: God promises protection and guidance to the righteous. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

Conclusion:
Righteous living, as depicted in the Bible, is a life dedicated to following God's commandments, characterized by faith, integrity, love, and justice. The rewards of such a life are both temporal and eternal, offering peace, divine favor, and the promise of eternal life with God.