Why is pursuing righteousness and mercy important for Christians?

Pursuing righteousness and mercy is vital for Christians as it signifies an acknowledgment of their spiritual state and their need for God's grace. Proverbs 21:21 indicates that those who chase after these attributes find life, righteousness, and honor, which can only be truly realized through Jesus Christ. This pursuit is not about self-reliance but rather a heartfelt response to recognizing that without Christ, we have no righteousness of our own. Instead, true pardon and justification come through faith in Him, as He embodies both righteousness and mercy. For believers, the act of pursuing these qualities is essential for living rightly before God and reflecting His character to the world.