Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
The Basis of Good Works
“Who is wise and
understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in
the humility that comes from wisdom.” -James 3:13
Many people devote great energies to serve their church or community in some
capacity, whether it be as a Sunday School teacher, as a member of the church’s
executive committee, as a volunteer on a mission trip or in a soup kitchen, or
some other mode of good works. An important question must be asked: For what
purpose is this work done? Some do it to quantify one’s self-worth via
accomplishment. Others do it to broadcast and proclaim their good activities to
those around them, as the Pharisee does in Luke 18:11-12. And, still others do
these works to check off a “master list” of tasks, working to achieve the
ultimate prize that is God’s love. Works done in this way are baseless and bear
no fruit in the kingdom of God.
Throughout Scripture, especially in James 3:13, it is seen that our deeds must
come from (moreover, must be rooted in) humility founded in the wisdom of God.
Job 28:28, Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 9:10, and Proverbs 15:33 show that this
wisdom comes from the intimate knowledge and reverence of our Father in heaven,
who is greater than all. Moreover, this wisdom opens our eyes to see that the
God who reigns on high showers His love freely and unconditionally to all of
His children. There is no work that can earn God’s love - the life and death of
Jesus Christ were all the “works” needed to manifest His love for us (see John
3:16).
Now, here’s the kicker: Because we are so loved by God and we, by reflex, love
others because He loves us, we, His children, are compelled to DO things for
Him and His kingdom. BECAUSE God loves you and, by wisdom, you know it, you
join the executive committee to serve. “Because [God’s] love is better than
life, [your] lips will glorify [Him]” by being an active, committed member of
your church’s praise & worship team (see Psalm 63:3). BECAUSE God loves you
and has equipped you, in humility, you go and do!
Well … that is how it should be anyway. In reality, is that the case? Let us
evaluate ourselves in the light of His wisdom and see what is the basis of our
works and life.
Prayer: Almighty Father, Your love overwhelms us. You
showed us the greatness of Your love on that cross. By that love and the wisdom
of knowing You, stir in us a passion to do work for the betterment of the children
in Your Kingdom. Lord, equip us to reach out to the homeless, loveless, and
hopeless, so that, through us, they may see Your light. May we decrease so that
You may increase! In Your mighty name alone, AMEN!
Thought for the Day: 'God showers His love freely and unconditionally to all
of His children.'
Dr. Shaun Rajan, St.
Andrew’s MTC, New York
Theme for the week: Seeking
the wisdom of God