“WHEN THE RIGHTEOUS INCREASE”
“When the righteous are increased, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man beareth rule, the people sigh” (Prov. 29:2, ASV). “When the righteous are increased…” says much about what we need to do as Christians. Other translations use a different word for “increased;” such as, “thrive.” “authority,” “flourish.” All of these words point to the same thing; and that is, when there is more righteousness, things go better.
In more recent years it seems that unrighteousness has flourished. We have seen the words of Paul in Romans one come alive before our very eyes. Homosexuality, lesbianism, cohabitation have all seem to become main-stream as far as the world is concerned. The fact that “God also gave them up to uncleanness,” that “God gave them up unto vile affections,” and “God gave them over to a reprobate mind” (Rom. 1:24,26,28) seemingly had no impact then nor does it today. Paul wrote, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness” (Rom. 1:18). Even though God’s wrath is revealed the world pays no attention. So what do we do? Increase righteousness!
Congregations can increase righteousness by being more evangelistic in the community. The Great Commission teaches us to go into all the world (Mark 16:15). My understanding of that passage is, “As you go…” preach the gospel. Congregations can become more evangelistic in our communities by paying closer attention to those who visit our services. How many people pass through our assemblies, but we don’t seem to notice. To many, door knocking is a waste of time. No, door knocking is a tool to help us reach out to those who live near us.
Parents, can increase righteousness by helping their children be more spiritual. Probably every Christian knows, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Prov. 22:6). There is a difference in knowing and acting upon it. Making sure your children never miss Bible School, seeing that your children take advantage of spiritual growth activities in the congregation, sending your children to camp every year, and encouraging their participation in devotionals are ways to help them grow spiritually. How does a young person become involved in worldly activities? Friends! Why not encourage your children to invite their friends to church activities?
Individuals can increase righteousness by showing their friends, co-workers, and relatives the joy of Christianity. Paul wrote, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). “Let Jesus be seen in 2018!” Folks will often ask us, “Will you pray for me?” Our answer is always, “Yes” but why not say, “Why don’t you come with me to the services and be there when we pray for you.”
We can increase righteousness by following more closely the Holy Word of God.
