“How can I be righteous?” It’s a question I’ve whispered in prayer many times—maybe you have too. There is a phrase in my culture that simply says, “I just want to be right.” It’s not referring to conquering an argument, but being “right” in the eyes of the Lord. I remember many women and men ending or beginning their testimonies with that phrase. I never forgot it.
In a world that constantly pushes us to compromise, compare, and conform, the pursuit of righteousness can feel like trying to hold onto a soap bubble. But here’s the truth: God never intended righteousness to be complicated or unattainable.
Let’s take this journey together, as sisters in Christ, and answer this timeless question with truth, love, and practical steps.
I hope you are encouraged after reading. I pray I am, too.
What Does It Mean to Be Righteous?
How to be a righteous person?
At its root, righteousness means being right with God.
It’s not about being perfect or religiously polished—it’s about living in a way that honors God, reflects His holiness, and follows His Word.
The Bible says:
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
So the real question becomes: How can I be righteous in real life?
Not just in church, but in traffic (Ugh!), in conflict, in temptation, and in my day-to-day thoughts?
Why Righteousness Matters
Without righteousness, we drift.
Our prayers feel dry.
Our decisions are more impulsive. We become spiritually “off.”
“The way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.” – Proverbs 4:19
Righteousness isn’t about trying to earn salvation—that’s already ours in Christ. It’s about living out our identity as God’s daughters, set apart and empowered.
My Own Story
I’m not perfect, so don’t judge me. But, I do often ponder, how to be a righteous person.
Right now, I do not really have a car. That bugs me.
My engine light has been on for months, but my husband said, “Don’t worry about it, it’s nothing.” I’ve had lots of unrighteous thoughts about that. It makes me mad and exacerbates my sadness and depression.
I sigh, repent, and continue to trust God with the situation. I keep my mouth shut. Maybe it’s God’s plan that I be home right now so I can heal. Perhaps, He is teaching me to wait.
Back in the day, I would think I would need to get saved again because I had “unrighteous” thoughts or angry thoughts.
That’s foolish!
Our salvation is secure. Jesus did the work to ensure it. But, I need to learn patience and keep my thoughts right.
That’s my example. Let me share some others as case studies. These are fictional but based on people I’ve known or talked to. Clearly the names are not actual people.
Case Study 1: Tasha, Age 28
Tasha is a young professional working in a competitive corporate setting.
She’s smart, ambitious, and driven—but her quiet time with the Lord keeps getting pushed aside by early meetings, social media, and work stress.
One night, after a rough day, she cries out: “How can I be righteous when I barely make time for God?”
The answer came gently: “Start again. One moment with Me is better than hours without Me.”
She began setting her alarm just 15 minutes earlier for prayer and reading a Psalm. She also started journaling about what she read.
Over time, that habit grew into daily strength, clarity, and deeper spiritual sensitivity.
Takeaway: You don’t need to overhaul your life to walk in righteousness—just start where you are, and be consistent.
How to be a righteous person?
Let’s explore ten practical truths and scriptures that answer this question and bring it into your daily walk.
You ready? Let’s go:
1. Believe You Are Made Righteous in Christ
“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” – 2 Corinthians 5:21
Righteousness starts not with effort, but with faith in Christ. You are made righteous because of Jesus. So, when you ask “How can I be righteous?”—start with believing that you already are in Him.
I am so glad Jesus’ work on the cross made you and me righteous!, It transformed our entire being and enables us to stand before God without fear or shame.
This monumental act of sacrifice not only atoned for our sins but also restored our relationship with the Father. This is what provides a pathway to salvation and eternal life.
Through His suffering and resurrection, Jesus showed His love for us by offering grace and forgiveness to everyone who believes.
By accepting this gift of righteousness, you are encouraged in scripture to live in a way that reflects His teachings and love, enabling you to share this message of hope with others.
The hard work is done. We just have to walk in obedience to His Word.
2. Pursue a Daily Relationship with the Lord
“Abide in me, and I in you.” – John 15:4
Spending time with God changes everything. Make a simple routine:
- Morning prayer (even 10 minutes)
- One Bible chapter daily
- Worship music during chores or driving
How can I be righteous? Here is the answer: Righteousness grows in my daily connection with Jesu.
That is what gives me a deep sense of spiritual communion with the almighty God of the universe. My connection with Him is what transforms my heart and mind.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
This spiritual connection not only enlightens my understanding of His teachings but also inspires me to embody His values in my everyday life.
HIS righteous.
Through prayer, scripture reading, and reflection on His life, I cultivate a stronger Christian faith that guides my decisions and actions. I need that. So do you.
This is when the sweet Holy Spirit does His work in me, making me more compassionate and loving towards others.
As I nurture this relationship with my Daddy-God, I begin to see the world through His eyes.
His eyes are so much better than my own perspctive – because I want to slap people sometimes. hehe
His eyes and my communion with Him give me the righteousness to flourish in all aspects of my life. Being close to Him is how to be a righteous person.
3. Confess Sin Quickly and Stay Humble
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9
Don’t wait to “feel holy” again. Confess, receive grace, and keep moving. That’s how the righteous woman stays free.
Confession to Jesus is a vital part of the Christian faith and the pursuit of righteousness, Christian Sister.
It serves not only as a means of seeking forgiveness but also as a way to strengthen our relationship with Him.
Sin separates us from close fellowship with Jesus.
Same goes for our brothers and sisters. That’s why sometimes we have to confess to others, too.
We do it to bring as this can bring healing and reconciliation in our relationships.
By being open about our flaws, we show humility and a commitment to learning from them and changing our approach.
If we want to be righteous in God’s eyes, confessing our sins is totallywhat we have to do.
I want you to remember that this act is not merely about admitting our faults but also about taking steps toward “being right” in God’s eyes.
4. Obey Promptings of the Holy Spirit
That little nudge not to gossip? That check in your spirit when you’re about to lose your temper? That’s the Spirit keeping you aligned.
I believe that ” obedience nurtures righteousness is one of my living principles. That doesn’t mean I always get it right, though.
It is just that it gently shapes our actions and thoughts.
I think obedience to the Holy Spirit can also integrate seamlessly into our daily choices, guiding us towards integrity and God’s way of doing things.
Do you agree? Do you obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit in your life?
5. Live with Integrity in Secret Places
“The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.” – Proverbs 15:3
Your private decisions determine your public power. Ask yourself:
- What do I watch when no one’s looking?
- How do I talk to myself?
- What’s in my thought life?
Answering “how can I be righteous” includes checking our secret lives. You know what I mean – the one under the spiritual “makeup” :)
6. Walk in Forgiveness and Love
“Love covers a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8
Bitterness is the enemy of righteousness.
Forgive quickly. Love lavishly. Speak gently.
That should be on a t-shirt!
7. Use Your Words to Build, Not Break
“The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life.” – Proverbs 10:11
Your speech should sound like heaven. It should mirror Jesus’ words and be kind, wise, and honest. When our mouths reflect God, so does our heart.
8. Stay Away from What Pollutes Your Soul
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” – Matthew 5:6
This can be a tough one. Some of the best shows often go against our Godly values. Long time ago, there was a show called “Once Upon a Time.” I loved it! It used fairytale characters as modern-day figures. There was one character that was clearly representative of a demon.
The Holy Spirit showed me that, and I felt He was telling me to stop watching it.
So, I did.
T V shows, conversations, or relationships that pull you away from God? Let them go. Righteousness requires spiritual discipline. How can I be righteous and relish in wickedness?
9. Surround Yourself with Godly Community
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
Righteous women hang around other righteous women. Don’t try to walk this road alone. You need friend.
10. Serve Others with Joy and Compassion
“The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern.” – Proverbs 29:7
Want to walk righteously? Serve someone. Bring a meal. Pray for someone. Volunteer at church. God notices.
Case Study 2: Linda, Age 52
Linda is a mom of teens and works full time.
She loves the Lord but recently noticed herself becoming impatient, sharp-tongued, and weary.
“I love God,” she says, “but I don’t feel like I’m living righteously.”
After talking with a mentor, she began journaling her prayers each morning, including confessions and requests for strength. She also rejoined a Bible study group. Within weeks, her peace returned, and her responses softened.
Takeaway: How can I be righteous? Often, it’s by returning to what nourishes your soul—His Word, His presence, and supportive community.
What Happens When We Don’t Walk in Righteousness?
Let’s be honest: we’ve all had seasons when we weren’t walking righteously. What does that look like?
- Confusion in decisions
- Spiritual dullness
- Bitterness or resentment
- Easily triggered emotions
- Feeling disconnected from God
“There is no peace,” says the Lord, “for the wicked.” – Isaiah 48:22
If any of that feels familiar, it’s not condemnation—it’s an invitation back to the path.
Case Study 3: Shawna, Age 67
Shawna retired early and has more time on her hands than ever—but loneliness crept in. With no spiritual structure to her days, she fell into binge-watching TV and lost interest in her walk with God.
“I asked myself: How can I be righteous when I’m not even pursuing God anymore?”
Her answer came during a morning devotion she reluctantly read: “Return to Me.”
She created a weekly schedule to include Bible reading, service projects, and meeting with her granddaughters for prayer. That decision revived her joy.
Takeaway: Righteousness isn’t just for the young. It’s a lifelong calling that brings purpose at every stage.
Daily Practice Plan to Pursue Righteousness
Here’s a simple plan to walk in righteousness daily:
Morning Routine:
- Thank God for a new day
- Read 1 Psalm or Proverb
- Pray for 5 minutes: confess, request, surrender
Midday Check-In:
- Ask: “Lord, am I walking in Your way right now?”
- Read one verse or listen to a 3-minute devotional
Evening Wind Down:
- Journal 3 things you’re grateful for
- Confess any sin
- Pray for others
Do this! Let’s Get Real
Go get something to write with and grab your journal, if you have one.
Take a moment to reflect and journal your answers to the following:
- When do I feel closest to God?
- What areas of my life do not reflect righteousness?
- What’s one small step I can take today to walk more closely with Jesus?
Share your reflections in the comments, or email me personally. I’d love to pray with you.
What to do next..
Friend, if you’ve ever asked “How can I be righteous?”, you’re already on the right path—because your heart longs for more of God.
Don’t wait until you feel “ready.”
Start now. I have some ideas below that will answer your question on how to be a righteous person.
✅ Download my free Christian Habit Tracker to help structure your daily walk with God.
✅ Subscribe to the blog for weekly encouragement just like this. Soon, I will be specific downloads only to subscribers.
✅ Share this post with another sister who’s wondering the same question.
My Last Word on the Subject
Righteousness is not a destination—it’s a relationship. It’s knowing Jesus, walking with Him daily, and letting His righteousness cover and change you.
You don’t have to be perfect. Just be surrendered.
“How can I be righteous?” One day, one prayer, one choice at a time.
