Thursday, July 9, 2015

How Do I Know If I Should Do Something For God?

Are you called to do something for God?

Sometimes people feel they should do something for God, like a mission, a service project, or start something in their community, but how do you know if it is the right thing?

"Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel." Philippians 1:27.

This verse of Scripture is where Paul was talking about being uncertain that he would be able to visit the church in the city of Philippi.

WHATEVER

Whatever means in all circumstances or at every moment.  We might be able to do something, or we might not, but either way, we are to control our reactions and make sure those reactions are righteous.

MANOR

You should behave as ambassadors of the gospel and act like citizens of Jesus' kingdom. Our actions should be above reproach. What we do and who we are should reflect the Gospel message.
     * If the message is truth, then live and do the truth.
     * If the message is love, then live and do love.
     * If the message is reconciliation, then live and do reconciliation.
     * If the message is forgiveness, then live and do forgiveness.

GOSPEL OF CHRIST

The Gospel of Christ is the good news that though we were once driven away from God because of our sin, God in love has paid the price for our sin by sending his son to die in our place and take the judgment so we can have forgiveness and be brought back to God. He offers this new life with him as a gift that we can receive by faith in his promise.

This is a worthy Gospel. This gospel of love, forgiveness, and oneness with God is worthy of any sacrifice, act of devotion, service,  or dedication we may be called to do.

IS IT WORTHY?
If you are called to do something worthy of the gospel, then respond yes to that call, but make sure it is worthy of the Gospel...
     * It must be done in love.
     * It must be done in Jesus' name- meaning it would be something he would do.
     * It must be a service to God and others.
     * It must engage the unity of the community of faith.
     * It must advance the gospel.
     * It will mean sacrifice.

Life is full of options, and the "whatever" of this verse is that if you do something in a way that is worthy of the gospel, the choice is acceptable.

It is natural for those who have Jesus dwelling in their heart to want to do things for him. If you have never felt that you want to do something for God, then it may be that you do not really know the Lord. To find out how you can know Jesus as savior follow this link for more information.

(c) Adron 7/9/15