The Misconception of Good Works
When it comes to our faith, many of us get it backwards. We think that by doing good works, we’re proving our faith to God and others. But is that really the case?
A Faith That Shows
As James 2:14-26 reminds us, “What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions?” It’s a powerful question that gets to the heart of our motivations. Are we doing good works to impress God or to genuinely respond to His presence in our lives?
The Root of the Problem
New believers often fall into the trap of thinking that their good works will earn them brownie points with God. They believe that by volunteering and doing good deeds, they’ll prove to themselves and others that they’ve changed. But this approach is misguided. Our faith isn’t about what we do; it’s about who we believe in.
Faith Comes First
James writes, “What good is faith without action?” But he’s not saying that our actions prove our faith. Rather, our faith leads us to take action. When we surrender ourselves to Jesus, our faith becomes the foundation upon which we build our lives. Good works are a natural outflow of that faith, not the other way around.
The Danger of Burnout
When we focus on doing good works without first establishing a strong foundation of faith, we risk burning out. We may start strong, but without a deep understanding of God’s heart, we’ll eventually run out of steam. That’s why it’s essential to prioritize our relationship with God, allowing Him to guide us towards the good works He has in mind for us.
A Life of Response
Doing good works isn’t a one-time achievement; it’s a way of life. When we’re living in full faith and trust in God, we’ll naturally respond to His promptings. We’ll feel the tug of His Holy Spirit, guiding us towards acts of love and service. This is when we’re truly blessed, and when others around us are blessed as well.
A Prayer for Guidance
Father, help us to understand the difference between working from our own strength and working in response to Your guidance. May we not be motivated by our own willpower, but by Your Holy Spirit stirring within us. Help us to share this truth with others, that they may also be strengthened by Your living word.
Reflection Question
Have you been living a works-based or faith-based life of salvation? Take a moment to reflect on your motivations and priorities. Are you doing good works to impress God, or are you responding to His love and guidance in your life?
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