Every man, woman and child was created by God to walk in “good works” (Ephesians 2:10). It follows then, that every authority established by God for His people has a God-given opportunity to lead His people into those good works. That responsibility includes hearing the voice of God; for God does not empower works that are not in His will.
Those that find the will of God, in good works, walk in the empowering grace of God – the supernatural ability and resources of the kingdom of heaven. They experience God-glorifying work (Matthew 5:16); and the “more than” works of John 14:12. Signs and wonders will bear witness to the gospel of His grace (Acts 14:3) in the good works of God’s will.
This is the normal Christian life; for every child of God, and for those called to lead them. It is a tragedy that so many have chosen to settle for less; the opposite of Jesus’ promise. Why has this happened to so many in the church? Perhaps they do not understand the mystery of good works. Perhaps they have not been encouraged to walk in this promise of God. Perhaps they have not been equipped for the adventure.
The purpose of this series of articles is to encourage, edify and equip Marketplace Leaders (and those in their spheres of influence) to search out, discover and walk in such an adventure. Let’s start with the basics.
Definitions
To understand the mystery of good works, we must begin with a few definitions.
Good (agathos): Of good constitution or nature; useful, salutary; good, pleasant, agreeable, joyful, happy; excellent, distinguished; upright, honourable.
You will note that the good of the Bible has a richer meaning than our secular use of the word today. This is the same good about which Jesus said, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God.” Therefore, we begin to understand that good works are something more than we might assume.
Work (ergon): Business, employment, that which anyone is occupied (that which one undertakes to do, enterprise, undertaking); any product whatever, anything accomplished by hand, art, industry, or mind; an act, deed, thing done; the idea of working is emphasized in opposition to that which is less than work.
In contrast to good, the definition of work (and works) is rather boring. It’s simply something we do, or the product thereof. I don’t think this is a coincidence; the Holy Spirit is helping us understand and consider a very important principle. The work is not as important as its nature.
In a sense, any work will do; be it washing the floor or giving sight to the blind. It is not the work that makes a difference in the kingdom of God, but the goodness of it. Is it agreeable, joyful, excellent, upright, honorable, etc.?
This seems to be different than the way we generally think. The world recognizes work based on its accomplishment; rather than for the motivation and heart of the one doing the work. We assume the “good”-ness of the work based on the outcome.
In contrast, small acts of kindness get very little recognition. This, of course, is not the way of the kingdom. The story of the widow’s mites is a good example (Mark 12:41-44).
As we begin to explore this matter of good works, allow the LORD to search your heart. Have you been more concerned with the outcome and/or the appearance of your work than the goodness behind it? Confess your sin; that He would forgive it and deliver you from all unrighteousness (1John 1:9). Having done so, join the Holy Spirit in the renewal of your mind by reckoning the importance of “good” over “work”.
Until next time, share the truth – it will make someone free.
Humbly yours and forever His,
P.S. To continue to Part 2, click here.