Romans 13:1-5 (3) … “Do that which is good…”
Maybe you have heard the old expression? “You can drag a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.” Yes, and the same holds true for good works. God commands that we do good works but it is only those who love Him who will obey.
The fact hold true, however, we are commanded to do good works. This implies a number of things. God sees a real necessity in doing good works. Good works are for a divine purpose. Whether good works are received or not is not what is of importance… our obedience is what is at stake. We do not have a choice in whether to do good works or not. Finally, there are needy benefactors.
If this is the case then what must we do. First, there should be no need for coercion if you truly love God. Second, there should be no question about your obedience to His command if He is first in your life.
When God commands you to do good works and then you do them under protest or from the wrong motivation then they become as filthy rags in His sight. Works are not what is the focus of importance but love which results in obedience.
Dr. Gayle Woods
Acts 9:36-42 (36)… “… this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.” As the old story goes, a wood cutter became very angry because his wife failed to put salt in his morning porridge. After a heated argument he went to work in a foul mood. Still infuriated he lashed out at a tree with such force that his axe head flew off. At just that time his employer’s favorite horse was being led to the blacksmith’s shop. The axe head struck and injured the horse. This was doubly tragic for his employer was an important nobleman and was planning to ride this horse to a meeting of the lords to discuss their differences with the King. The nobleman upon finding out about his injured horse angrily went to the meeting where he successfully argued for an uprising against the King. The rebellion developed quickly, many were killed and the land suffered from poverty and famine.
Why did all of this take place? Because a wood cutter’s wife failed to salt her husband’s porridge. Although this story could be used to illustrate various things it does emphasize that little things can have a widespread effect. The effect can be good or bad, positive or negative. Have you ever thrown rocks into a pond? Did you notice the ripple effect? Your good works have an effect on someone, somewhere.
You are God’s hands and feet. What are you doing for Him?
Dr. Gayle Woods
