Day 218

Of Good Works.

Chapter 16, Paragraph 2.

“These good works, done in obedience to God’s commandments, are the fruits, and evidences of a true, and lively faith; and by them Believers manifest their thankfulness, strengthen their assurance,…”

Scripture Lookup

James 2:18,22

Psalm 116:12,13

1 John 2:3,5

2 Pet. 1:5-11

Reflection

What do we prove by our good works? That we’re better than others? No. Good works leave no room for boasting. They are not done to earn favor with God, for we have seen His mercy towards us in Christ. Rather, by obeying God’s commands we see a demonstration of the faith we profess. Good works flow from faith. They are the result, or fruit, of genuine God-given faith. Realizing what Christ has done on our behalf, our gratitude takes shape in the form of good works.

Good works also assure us that we do possess saving faith. We have tangible evidence that our hearts have been changed, because our actions have changed. No longer do we do all things out of an inclination toward evil. Looking back on our Christian walk, we can see that God’s commands have not been cumbersome, and that we have delighted to do them. Perhaps we have not delighted to them all the time, for we still have the corruption of sin remaining with us, but a true and lively faith will leave its marks by the good works it produces.

Therefore,

…let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. -Hebrews 10:24,25

Questions to Consider

• Can you see good works in your life as evidence of your faith?