Tag Archives: good deeds

“And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.”  (2 Thessalonians 3:13, NIV)

Being on the side of the angels would be so much easier if others appreciated our good works, but good deeds often go either unrecognized, unrewarded or — worst of all — punished.

Paul reminds us to stoke the desire to do the right thing, the right way, at the right time, to all people (especially when we’re rewarded with a kick in the pants instead of a pat on the back).

Never forget that God sees everything.  He will reward you for the good you’re doing (even if others do not).  So, stay on the job!  – Luther

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“Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.”  (Philippians 3:17, NIV)

Every person is a “model.” Some people are examples of what to do; and others are examples of what not to do.

Paul encouraged the disciples in Philippi to follow his own example, and to follow others in the community who live similarly.

Righteous living needs to be encouraged, although it often requires making choices that are contrary to the culture; such as, eschewing the love of money, loving our enemies, and always being kind to the poor.

If you are discouraged because it seems that you’re alone on the narrow path of righteous living, look around! When you find a fellow-traveler, keep your eyes on him or her, even if from afar.  – Luther

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“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10, NIV)

You’ve heard the expression: “Your work is cut-out for you.”

It is a good thing to have one’s work clearly defined and waiting to be accomplished.  As disciples of Jesus — “God’s handiwork” — our work is cut-out, and waiting, for us from all of the other missions and tasks in the world that wait to be taken-up.

When we were made new in Christ we became an instrument for good works.  Don’t allow yourself to become a tool for anything less.

How do we know whether the task before us is of God?  Make it your ambition to walk with God in, and through, every circumstance.  “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”  (Proverbs 3:6)  – Luther

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