“In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:16 NLT
I like this verse because it contradicts the belief that everything we do should be kept quiet and secret so that pride doesn’t enter our hearts.
It also affirms the belief that good work cannot be hidden because even the most worldly person recognises it.
This just means that when we are connected to the ultimate source of light, we become that light in the form of good works. Without striving to be in people’s faces, the results speak.
But the only reason people will glorify God in heaven for our good works is based on how we do it.
How can we ensure that our results glorify God?
We’re not connected to the ultimate light source when we cut corners to get results. It also means that God won’t be glorified because there will always be people, including the accuser (the devil), who know how those results were attained.
When we realise that because we serve an exceptional God and are connected through Christ, we are also filled with the spirit of excellence to do exceptional work.
It is also important for us to do good work because of God and not man. Sometimes, we are tempted to get results to please people and get their praise. This is how we hijack glory for ourselves.
However, getting results should be the lifestyle of every believer, no matter where we are. The primary reason for the results is to please God because it shows how alike we are. I’d rather be a God-pleaser than a people-pleaser.
“I do exceptional work that pleases God alone.”
Are you striving extra hard just to get results? Are you focused on pleasing God or pleasing men? Check your intent.
The truth is that when we stay connected to the light source, we don’t need to hustle for results, the same way a bulb doesn’t hustle for illumination when the switch is on. The results happen automatically.
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