Definition and Nature of Uprightness

Uprightness, in biblical terms, refers to a state of moral integrity and righteousness, characterized by adherence to God's commandments and a life that reflects His holiness. It is a quality that God desires in His people, as it aligns with His own nature. The Hebrew word often translated as "upright" is "yashar," which conveys the idea of being straight, correct, or right.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of uprightness and the blessings that accompany it. In the Old Testament, uprightness is frequently associated with wisdom and the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 2:7 states, "He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk with integrity." This verse highlights the protective and guiding role of wisdom for those who live uprightly.

In the New Testament, uprightness is closely linked with the righteousness imparted through faith in Jesus Christ. Believers are called to live in a manner worthy of their calling, reflecting the character of Christ in their daily lives.

God's Recompense for the Upright

Scripture assures that God rewards those who walk in uprightness. Psalm 84:11 declares, "For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD gives grace and glory; no good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly." This promise underscores the divine favor and provision extended to the upright, affirming that God is attentive to their needs and desires.

The recompense for uprightness is not limited to material blessings but encompasses spiritual enrichment and eternal rewards. In Matthew 5:8, Jesus proclaims, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." This beatitude reveals the ultimate reward for uprightness: the privilege of experiencing God's presence and fellowship.

Examples of Uprightness in Scripture

Numerous biblical figures exemplify uprightness and its rewards. Job is described as "blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil" (Job 1:1). Despite severe trials, Job's integrity remained steadfast, and God ultimately restored his fortunes, demonstrating His faithfulness to the upright.

King David, though imperfect, is often celebrated for his heart's uprightness. In 1 Kings 9:4, God speaks to Solomon, saying, "As for you, if you walk before Me as your father David walked, with integrity of heart and uprightness, doing all I have commanded you and keeping My statutes and ordinances." David's life, marked by repentance and a sincere pursuit of God, serves as a model of uprightness rewarded by divine favor.

The Call to Uprightness

Believers are exhorted to pursue uprightness as a reflection of their relationship with God. Micah 6:8 encapsulates this call: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This verse emphasizes that uprightness involves justice, mercy, and humility, all of which are integral to a life pleasing to God.

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently encourages believers to live uprightly. In Philippians 2:15, he writes, "so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world." Here, uprightness is portrayed as a testimony to the world, a beacon of God's truth and love.

Conclusion

Uprightness is a vital aspect of the Christian life, reflecting a heart aligned with God's will and purposes. Those who walk in uprightness are assured of God's recompense, both in this life and the life to come. Through the examples of biblical figures and the teachings of Scripture, believers are encouraged to pursue uprightness, trusting in God's promises and provision.Psalm 18:23,24
I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from my iniquity.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Book of Enoch
... shown him; he shall receive dominion, and walk in everlasting ... will He give truth
in the habitation of uprightness. And they shall see how those who were born ...
//christianbookshelf.org/deane/pseudepigrapha/the book of enoch.htm

Penitence, as Explained in the Sophistical Jargon of the Schoolmen ...
... as they certainly do, that vengeance will be recompensed, there can ... broken, "If his
children forsake my law, and walk not in my judgments; if they break my ...
/.../the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 4 penitence as explained.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... which leads to heaven, righteousness, holiness, goodness and uprightness: even as ...
walk in the night, cannot see to walk by the sun, yet by the moon they may ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal
... when they heard of the singular uprightness of Deiokes ... O Shamash, great lord, are
they decreed, promulgated ... these negotiations, nor whether the god granted the ...
/.../chapter iithe power of assyria 2.htm

What does the Bible say about integrity? | GotQuestions.org

What is righteousness? | GotQuestions.org

What does it mean to believe in God? | GotQuestions.org

Uprightness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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