Scripture Sunday - Proverbs 21:21

"Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness and honor."

Notice that it does not say, "Whoever attains righteousness". We cannot attain perfect righteousness in this life,
but that certainly does not mean that we do not pursue it. (1 Tim. 6:11; 2 Tim. 2:22)
Also, according to this text, when we pursue, or strive for, righteousness, we will get more than we bargained
for:

Righteousness begets life - God has designed the whole of creation to operate in such a way that actions that
are according to His character are rewarded, and vice versa. (Prov. 11:4-5, 19; 12:28)

Righteousness begets righteousness - When we pursue righteousness, we are being "trained" to say no to
ungodly desires, and strengthen godly habits, thereby making it more and more our second nature, if you
will, to walk in holiness. (Gal. 5:16)

Righteousness begets honor - When we make wise and righteous choices, people will see that we are trustworthy and know that they can depend on us, and God will reward all men for everything they've done
in this life, whether good or evil. (Jhn. 12:26; Rom. 2:6-10, 14:11-12)

Yet, we must be careful here, and test ourselves, lest we should pursue righteousness only for self-gain.
Our desire for righteousness must stem from God's desire, and commands, for us to be holy.
Indeed, this should be the driving force in our Christian walk, namely,

         "And the LORD came and stood, calling as at other times, 'Samuel! Samuel!' 

And Samuel said, 'Speak, for your servant hears.' - 1 Sam. 3:10