Created for Good Works
We are God’s artwork, created for good works! From the very beginning God had planned a path for us to walk and work for us to do. As God’s workers, drafted into his service, he is able to empower us to accomplish his purposes. He gives us the faith, the divine persuasion and loyalty, to fulfill our purpose with strength and energy. And he asks us to do his will and embrace our spiritual journey with him. He expects good works.
What is God’s Will for Us?
We have been called to believing obedience — faith with works. For faith is not mere belief, but action. This means using our unique talents in God’s service. And it also means faithfully fulfilling God’s specific commands in scripture. This loyal service begins at home. Paul makes it clear that those who do not provide for their family are disloyal and have “denied the faith.’ Why? God’s expectation is that you would care for those in your household, all those in your sphere of influence. These good works were a part of the moral and ethical obligations written into the law of Moses. But they were understood from the very beginning, when God brought Cain face-to-face with his failure to be his “brother’s keeper.”
Jesus’ Family History
The story of Ruth and Boaz, the kinsman redeemer, highlights God’s desire for the good works that build a family heritage. Ruth’s loving service in supporting her mother-in-law, Naomi, after the death of their husbands began their journey together. And upon their return to Israel, Ruth worked diligently to glean and provide for Naomi’s needs. As a result, she came to the attention of Boaz the owner of the fields where she was gleaning. Ultimately Boaz honoured Ruth by loyally fulfilling the role of kinsman redeemer. Their mutual care and respect and their faithful application of God’s teachings led to God’s blessings for their family. But they could not have known that their good works would also fulfill God’s greater purpose in establishing the genealogy of the Messiah.
Good Works and Leadership
Within the family, God’s expectation from the beginning was that parents should teach their children the moral, ethical ways of God. Thus, even children would be known by their good works. And in communities, families grown great, God looked for leaders who would set an example of good works. Nehemiah, was such an example. Sent to Jerusalem from Babylon, he worked to re-establish the community by building up the wall and rededicating the people to God and his commandments. He did this by his personal example of obedience and generosity, and by encouraging all the families to work together to accomplish God’s purpose. His life is a testimony to us in our efforts to accomplish the good works that God has created us to perform.
View on Minds:
https://www.minds.com/newsfeed/1293678823090425870?referrer=JudeoChristian
