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, level, or right. In the New Testament, the Greek word "dikaios" is used, meaning just or righteous.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of uprightness. In the Old Testament, uprightness is often associated with the fear of the Lord and obedience to His laws. Proverbs 11:3 states, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the perversity of the faithless destroys them." This verse highlights the guiding power of uprightness in the life of a believer.

In the New Testament, uprightness is closely linked with faith in Jesus Christ and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 4:24 encourages believers to "put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

God's Support for the Upright

Scripture assures that God upholds those who walk in uprightness. Psalm 37:17 declares, "For the arms of the wicked will be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous." This divine support is a recurring theme, emphasizing that God not only desires uprightness but actively sustains those who pursue it.

The book of Proverbs further reinforces this promise. Proverbs 2:7 states, "He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk with integrity." Here, God is depicted as a protector and provider for the upright, offering wisdom and security.

Examples of Upright Individuals

Throughout the Bible, numerous individuals exemplify uprightness. Job is described as "blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil" (Job 1:1). Despite severe trials, Job's commitment to uprightness remains steadfast, and God ultimately restores him.

King David, though not without sin, is often celebrated for his heart's uprightness. In 1 Kings 9:4 , God instructs Solomon, "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."

The Call to Uprightness

Believers are called to pursue uprightness as a reflection of their relationship with God. Micah 6:8 succinctly captures 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?"

The New Testament echoes this call, urging believers to live lives worthy of their calling. Philippians 1:10-11 encourages believers to "approve what is excellent, in order to be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God."

Conclusion

Uprightness is a vital aspect of the Christian life, deeply rooted in the character of God and His expectations for His people. Through His Word and Spirit, God empowers believers to walk in uprightness, promising His support and blessing to those who do.Psalm 41:12
And as for me, you uphold me in my integrity, and set me before your face for ever.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

God with Us, and we with God
... and they shall fight against thee, but they shall not ... that is weak man, stiffened
into uprightness, and rooted ... God, and tries to trust Him, and walk before Him ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture j/god with us and we.htm

Letter Li. From Epiphanius, Bishop of Salamis, in Cyprus, to John ...
... 1295] psalm, while lamenting that all men walk in a ... curtains of the other sort"opposed
as they are to ... A man of your uprightness should be careful to remove ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter li from epiphanius bishop.htm

Greek and Jew
... out of very rancor against its uprightness, violated with ... on the smoked and untidy
marble Walk of the ... They crossed the Tyropean Valley and approached a small ...
/.../miller/the city of delight/chapter viii greek and jew.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... The steps, then, by which men went up to the house of the Lord, were significative
of those steps which men take when they go to God, to heaven, and glory: for ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

A Discourse
... compared to, and pillars were they that upheld this house ... at least, had but little
light to walk by; yea ... under our consideration, no marvel if they that breathed ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse.htm

The Saints' Privilege and Profit;
... a beloved minister was seized and imprisoned for his love to Christ, the church
held a prayer meeting on his account, and while they were praying God sent his ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the saints privilege and profit.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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