Isaiah 32:17-18

The fruit of righteousness will be peace;
the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.

My people will live in peaceful dwelling places,
in secure homes,
in undisturbed places of rest.

Why should we live a righteous life? Why should we follow the ways of the Lord? So we can have peace, quietness, confidence. Only in God can we have a peaceful life. This does not mean that we will not experience difficulties, but our foundation will not be shaken. Sometimes I am tempted to look for pleasure in the temptations of the world and to turn my back on righteousness, but these verses remind me of the importance of staying the course. The long term benefits far outweigh the short term pleasures.