Not by works
“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work.” Revelation 22:12
It is clear in scripture that we cannot be saved by our good works even though most people generally have the idea that if they do enough good things it will outweigh the bad actions. However, it just isn’t the case. God’s Word plainly tells us in the book of Titus and other places that it is not by works of righteousness which we have done but according to His mercy He saved us. It is very clear that there is no way that we can save ourselves no matter what we do.
Yet, there is good news about doing good deeds. Today’s scripture says that there are rewards for the things we do here in this world. I am talking about anything that we do to help advance God’s kingdom, will go with us into eternity. Not just the lives that we have helped to lead into the kingdom, but also the good things we have done to influence lives for heaven or support the ministries that are bringing souls in.
Jesus said in Matthew 5 that we are to let our light shine (the light of the good news of God’s love and salvation) so that others can see our good works and glorify God in heaven. Let me be clear here. We do not do good works for the approval of people or to be noticed or promoted, but rather for loving people. We are working and laboring together with the Holy Spirit of God to encourage people to walk closely with our Father so that all people will complete down to the last detail every assignment on their life.
I would like to point out that there is also a sense of urgency in today’s passage. Jesus said, “I am coming quickly.” It is a promise, but it is also a warning not to waste our time here in this world because we don’t know when He will come and He gives us the opportunity to maximize our effectiveness as an ambassador of heaven by following the Master’s plan for our lives, everyday of our life. Yes, I know this passage was written close to two thousand years ago, but all that tells us is that we are closer now than ever before in time to His return. Don’t waste another day.
So today I want to encourage you to do goods works for others. Not so that God will love you more and not for the praise of other people, but for the purpose you were given breath. Come along side friends that are struggling in life, pray for those who need salvation and have other needs. Give to those who are lacking or to missions around the world and invite others to your small groups and church services. Ask the Holy Spirit today to lead you to those who need your love and compassion and when you see them, don’t look the other way and ignore the chance to impact a life for eternity. Instead, run to that person with open arm and let them know there is a Father and Savior Who loves them and wants to rescue them no matter what their circumstances are.
Today’s scripture reading: Revelation 22:12-17
12 “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.
13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.”
14 Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.
15 But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.
16 “I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.”
17 And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.
The Daily Dose 