THE PROPER PLACE OF WORKS
“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” Hebrews 6:10 NIV
Many denominations and belief systems emphasize human works as the determining factor for gaining God’s grace and favor.
But this view makes the sacrifice of Jesus unnecessary. As Paul reminds us, “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8–9)
Because of this misunderstanding, many do good not as fruit produced by the Spirit within them, but as a transaction, an attempt to earn favor. Their giving may not flow from genuine love for neighbor, but from a desire to be seen as generous or spiritually impressive.
For believers, grace is the true enabler. By grace, we love those who may not love us, forgive offenses that once felt impossible, and put others first in moments where selfishness once ruled.
Grace doesn’t merely strengthen our efforts, it reshapes the heart, aligning our desires with God’s, and that is what sets a true Christian apart from the myriad of “good works” that are merely transactional.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the gift of Your grace that is unearned, undeserved, freely given through Christ. You guard my heart from striving to earn what you have already finished. Let my works flow from the love birthed by your Spirit at work in me, my desires shaped to mirror yours and my service to be with humility. By your grace I give without seeking praise, and love as You have loved me. Your grace fuels my obedience, as gratitude guides my steps. In Jesus’ name, amen.
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• Ephesians 2:8
• Titus 3:5
• Romans 11:6
