Awakening To Righteousness

AWAKENING TO RIGHTEOUSNESS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Corinthians 15:34

Supporting Texts: Romans 13:11-14, Ephesians 5:14, 1 Peter 1:15-16, 2 Corinthians 6:17-18

INTRODUCTION:

We are living in times when the line between righteousness and unrighteousness is becoming increasingly blurred, even among believers. Many are asleep spiritually—unaware of the dangers of compromise and the urgency of living a holy life. Paul’s cry in 1 Corinthians 15:34 is a clarion call to the Church: “Awake to righteousness, and sin not.” This is a wake-up call for every Christian to arise from spiritual slumber and walk in holiness and purpose.

To awaken to righteousness is to become conscious of our identity in Christ and live in a way that reflects His nature. It is to shake off the apathy and complacency that often accompany spiritual sleep, and to embrace a lifestyle that pleases God. This message challenges us to stop justifying sin, to pursue sanctification, and to stand as lights in a dark world.

Righteousness is not just a theological concept—it is a lifestyle of obedience, purity, and consecration. When the Church awakens to righteousness, revival begins, families are restored, and communities are transformed. This is God’s desire for His people.

1. RECOGNISE YOUR TRUE IDENTITY IN CHRIST

a) You are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17):

In Christ, your old sinful nature has been crucified. You are now a new person with a new purpose—called to reflect God's holiness.

b) You are the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21):

Jesus took our sin so we could become righteous. We must live with the consciousness of this truth.

c) You are called to holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16):

God's command is clear—be holy as He is holy. This is the standard, not an option.

d) You are no longer under condemnation (Romans 8:1):

Your past no longer defines you. Walk boldly in your new identity without shame or guilt.

Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son, after wasting his life in sin, came to himself and returned home to embrace his true identity (Luke 15:17-24).

2. SEPARATE YOURSELF FROM SIN

a) Put off the works of darkness (Romans 13:12):

Remove anything in your life that draws you away from God. You can’t awaken to righteousness while cuddling sin.

b) Flee youthful lusts (2 Timothy 2:22):

Don’t negotiate with temptation—run from it. Righteousness requires active resistance against sin.

c) Do not be unequally yoked (2 Corinthians 6:14):

Guard your associations; wrong influences can dull your spiritual senses.

d) Cleanse yourself from all filthiness (2 Corinthians 7:1):

Both inward and outward purity matter. God desires a clean vessel He can use.

Biblical Example: Joseph fled from Potiphar’s wife, choosing righteousness over pleasure (Genesis 39:7-12).

3. STAY SPIRITUALLY ALERT AND SENSITIVE

a) Be sober and vigilant (1 Peter 5:8):

The enemy seeks to exploit your spiritual laziness. Stay watchful and alert.

b) Keep your lamp burning (Matthew 25:1-13):

Like the wise virgins, be prepared and spiritually ready for Christ's return.

c) Walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16):

Living by the Spirit empowers you to overcome the flesh and its desires.

d) Abide in God’s Word (Psalm 119:11):

The Word of God keeps you grounded and guards your heart from sin.

Biblical Example: Daniel remained spiritually sensitive through prayer and devotion, even in a corrupt environment (Daniel 6:10).

4. COMMIT TO A LIFE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS DAILY

a) Present your body as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1):

Dedicate every part of your life to God’s service. It’s your reasonable worship.

b) Practice righteousness (1 John 3:7):

True children of God do what is right—not occasionally, but consistently.

c) Let your light shine (Matthew 5:16):

Your righteous lifestyle should glorify God and inspire others to follow Him.

d) Endure in righteousness till the end (Matthew 24:13):

This is not a one-time decision—it’s a daily commitment to please God.

Biblical Example: Noah remained righteous in a corrupt generation and found grace in God's eyes (Genesis 6:8-9).

CONCLUSION:

Awakening to righteousness is a personal decision that requires intentional separation from sin and commitment to godly living. The times demand it, the Spirit calls for it, and our world desperately needs the light of righteous believers.

As we awake from spiritual slumber, may we become vessels of honour in God's hands—burning with holiness, filled with boldness, and shining with His righteousness. Let today mark the beginning of a new season of spiritual alertness and consecration.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, awaken my heart to righteousness and holiness.

2. I renounce every sin and compromise in my life.

3. Father, restore my spiritual sensitivity and hunger for You.

4. Cleanse me from every form of unrighteousness.

5. Help me to walk daily in the consciousness of my identity in Christ.

6. I receive grace to flee every temptation that draws me into sin.

7. Ignite in me the fire of holiness and consecration.

8. Let my life shine as a light of righteousness in this generation.

9. Lord, make me a vessel of honour and purity.

10. Strengthen me to endure in righteousness till the end.