How does righteousness fit into the kingdom of God?

Righteousness plays a critical role in the kingdom of God as it is through Christ's righteousness that believers are justified and accepted by God. The passage in Romans 14:17 points out that righteousness, along with peace and joy, defines the essence of God's kingdom. Isaiah 45:8 poetically expresses this by stating that God creates righteousness for His creation. Moreover, through the life and sacrifice of Jesus, who perfectly fulfilled the law, believers receive righteousness that is imputed to them. This righteousness not only acquits the sinner but also establishes them in right relationship with God, forming the foundation of life within the kingdom of God.