What are good works? I grew up thinking “good works” were just good deeds and actions. While yes, these are included, it goes deeper than that. Good works are every aspect of ourselves - our conduct, thoughts, and actions. This includes how we talk, act, and respond to things. Mathew 5:16 says, “In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” As Christians, we are to glorify and share God in every way possible.
In Acts 3, Peter is a great example of someone who uses good works to glorify and bring people to God. He heals a man lame from birth, and when the people who witnessed the good works, they thought that Peter healed him by his own power. Peter was quick to tell them it was not his power, but God’s that healed the man and gave all glory to him. All the people were in awe and wonder, and I can’t imagine the impact this must have had on generations to come. Witnessing what God can do through Peter’s good works must have introduced God into many people’s lives.
Good works can set off a chain reaction. For example, my friend's aunt started a chain reaction. My friend used to hate church and was angry and resentful towards God, blaming him for struggles at home. She would spend the night at her aunt’s house frequently, and her aunt showed her God’s love and consistently invited her to church and to youth group. Eventually, my friend agreed. Her aunt showed her God’s love through her good works and persistence, leading her to church where her relationships with God healed and grew.
My friend began inviting friends to the youth group, and then they started inviting friends. Just because of one person’s good works, many kids have found Jesus and have been saved. While talking to my friend, she mentioned she didn’t realize how much one person's actions could lead to. One person’s persistence and love led to many new followers of Jesus
Good works can help bring people to God and even start chain reactions. Our good works may have more of an impact than we will ever truly know or understand. We can all share the gospel with people and use good works to create these opportunities. This is why it is so important to let God shine through us and grow our relationship with him- it gives us opportunities to share God’s love with others!
May God work and shine through all of us that we may share with everyone how great and loving he is.
