Schedule | 07.20.2026 - 11:59 am

Eighth Message of the Fast of Daniel: What Makes Someone Righteous Before God?

Obedience to the Word of God Leads a Person to True Righteousness Before the Lord

During the eighth special message of the Fast of Daniel, Bishop Macedo highlighted that the Word of God reveals the thoughts of God and shows who can rely on His protection and care. According to him, being righteous before God depends on one’s willingness to obey the Scriptures.

Who Are the Righteous?

Hearing and Obeying God’s Guidance

While meditating on Psalm 34:15–16, the bishop explained that God watches over the righteous and listens to their cries. Conversely, His face is set against those who act unjustly.

The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. (Psalm 34:15)

The bishop stated that the Word of God defines as righteous those who hear and obey His guidance.

He also emphasized that obedience requires sacrifice. True faith compels a person to renounce their own will and put God’s Word into action. Thus, it is not enough to know the Scriptures or profess belief in God; what truly matters is practicing what has been learned.

The Danger of Hearing Without Practicing

Knowing the Word Is Not Enough Without Obedience

During his message, the bishop warned that hearing the Word of God without acting upon it is a more serious condition than unbelief. He noted that an unjust person may believe in God and attend church yet still lack the sacrificial faith necessary to obey His Word, continuing to live according to their own desires.

The biblical text shows this contrast by stating:

The face of the LORD is against those who do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. (Psalm 34:16)

Therefore, the bishop emphasized that the most important aspect is not merely hearing the Word but practicing it daily.

God Is Ready to Embrace Those Who Desire to Change

Sincere Surrender Begins a New Path of Faith and Obedience

Bishop Macedo further explained that God is ready to embrace those who recognize their spiritual condition and desire to change their lives.

When a person grows weary of living in injustice and sincerely surrenders to the Lord, God listens to their prayer and guides them on a new path of faith and obedience.

Righteousness Begins With a Decision

Choose to Listen to and Practice God’s Word

In summary, righteousness before God is not a privilege reserved for a select few. It is a decision that begins when one chooses to listen to and practice His Word.