Created to Do Good for God
Today's Scripture
Ephesians 2:6-10
Today's Insights
Genesis tells us that "God created mankind in his own image" (1:27), and Ephesians 2:10 further reveals that "we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." During His earthly ministry, Jesus exemplified this purpose by performing "many good works from the Father" (John 10:32). Peter elaborates: "God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, ... he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him" (Acts 10:38). As Christ-followers, the Holy Spirit equips and empowers us to walk in Jesus' footsteps, producing in us "love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control" (Galatians 5:22-23) that overflow into good works.
Today's Devotional
I noticed the card flutter to the ground but hesitated. The father and his little girl who dropped it were just twenty feet ahead, and I was already running late for work. Surely they'll realize it's missing, I rationalized. But they continued walking, unaware. My conscience nudged me, and I quickly retrieved it—a prepaid bus pass that likely represented essential transportation for them. When I caught up and returned it, their faces lit up with gratitude, leaving me with an unexpected sense of satisfaction. Why does such a small gesture feel so rewarding? I wondered.
Scientists have discovered that acts of kindness trigger the release of chemicals in our brains that elevate our mood and sense of well-being. We're literally wired to feel good when we do good! This beautiful design points to our Creator, who fashioned us to reflect His generous nature.
Ephesians 2:10 illuminates this truth: "We are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." This verse isn't merely instructing us to perform charitable acts—it's revealing our essential purpose. We were crafted by the Master Artisan to extend His goodness into a broken world.
The beauty of this calling is that it doesn't require grand gestures or exceptional abilities. A returned bus pass, a held door, a listening ear—these seemingly small acts fulfill our design when done with love. Each time we choose kindness, we experience not only the natural reward of satisfaction but also the deeper joy of living in harmony with our God-given purpose.
God has strategically placed you where you are today—in your neighborhood, workplace, school, or community—with divine appointments for good works already prepared. What opportunity might He have arranged for you right now?
Reflect & Pray
Who in your life might need a helping hand or an encouraging word today? What simple act of kindness could you offer to a family member, coworker, or stranger that would reflect God's goodness? Ask the Holy Spirit to make you alert to the good works He has prepared for you.