Why is righteousness important in the Christian faith?

In Psalm 119:172, the psalmist states, 'For all thy commandments are righteousness.' This profound declaration emphasizes that righteousness is a fundamental aspect of God's nature and His commands. In Reformed theology, righteousness is understood as a central theme of the gospel, as seen in Romans 1:16-17, where righteousness is revealed through faith in Jesus Christ. Without righteousness, there can be no justification, underscoring the necessity of Christ's sacrificial work on the cross, where He fulfilled the demands of God's law on our behalf. Therefore, understanding and embracing righteousness is vital for the believer's assurance of salvation and relationship with God.