Why is it important to pursue righteousness and mercy in Christian life?

The pursuit of righteousness and mercy is central to the Christian walk because it leads believers to experience true life in Jesus Christ. As stated in Proverbs 21:21, those who pursue these attributes will find life, righteousness, and honor. This pursuit is described as actively engaging with the person of Christ, who ultimately represents perfect righteousness and mercy. When believers recognize their natural inability to produce righteousness and desperately seek Christ, they will find not only life but also the honor that comes from being united with Him. Furthermore, this pursuit combats spiritual presumption as believers acknowledge their neediness and dependence on God's grace, rather than on their own works.