03-Jul-2024 – Your faith in Jesus alone, qualifies you for good works
But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.-Romans 4:5
At first glance, Romans 4:5 may seem to suggest that works are unnecessary for righteousness. However, the term “works” in this context refers to “works to qualify to attain righteousness.” In Greek, the word used here is “ergazomai,” which means to trade or do business—to work with the expectation of earning something.
This raises a question: If our works do not qualify us for righteousness, why should we strive to be good or refrain from worldly things?
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” – Romans 3:23
“And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” – Genesis 6:5
“Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child” – Proverbs 22:15
These verses illustrate that the human heart, the source of our actions, words, and character, is naturally foolish and sinful. Even if we excel in one area, we may fall short in another.
Consider a job where our work is valued only if it aligns with the company’s goals, vision, and mission. Similarly, as God’s creation, our actions should glorify Him. Any deeds not done for God’s glory are worthless.
To comprehend the good works mentioned in Ephesians, we must first complete our meditation on Romans 4:5. When we believe, what are we believing? We acknowledge our sinfulness and unworthiness before God. Yet, through Jesus Christ, God forgives our sins and transforms our identity from sinner to child of God.
Justification means being declared righteous. By exhibiting faith without trying to earn righteousness through works, we confess our helplessness and dependence on God’s mercy and grace. When God justifies us, He declares us righteous, free from the burden of past sins.
Once justified, the Holy Spirit and God’s Word guide us. Under this divine leadership, we perform works according to God’s will, reflecting His character in a sinful world. These are the good works mentioned in Ephesians.
We are naturally helpless due to original sin, with Satan influencing our environment and circumstances. Hence, mere conscious good deeds, without God’s guidance, cannot glorify Him.
Understanding this truth is crucial. When you fail, do not be consumed by guilt. If you are born again, confess your sins to the Lord, seek His forgiveness, and submit to His Word and Spirit’s guidance. Your path will then glorify God. Instead of searching for ways to please God, confess and ask Him what you should do.
Prayer
Dear loving Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love and grace. You understand our natural limitations and, in Your gracious plan, provided the Lord Jesus Christ as the propitiation for our sins. Through faith, You enable us to access the divine favor available in Jesus Christ. Help us to believe and respond to this truth. We pray in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen!
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