Good Works

 by Macy Johnson

“God is able to make all grace abound to you,

so that in all things at all times,

having all that you need,

you will abound in every good work.”

(2 Corinthians 9:8 NIV)

 

I picked up my friend one Sunday afternoon to attend a funeral with her. “This is the third funeral for me this week,” she announced as she climbed into my Tahoe. It was a beautiful, peaceful ride to the church a few blocks away.

 

During the service we stood and sang “How Great Thou Art” under the leadership of the congregation’s gifted music director. My thoughts stirred to a quiet time with God earlier in the week. I had marveled at the universe and how my Creator could love me and want anything to do with me. Tears threatened to fill my eyes.

 

Michael Schumann had reminded me earlier that week, “The entire second letter to the Corinthians commends not limiting our labors on the basis of personal capacity, but leaning into greater labors because our God is limitless. It encourages regularly coming to the end of ourselves in serving so that God’s sufficiency, not our own, might shine forth.”

 

Pastor Bob preached that Sunday morning during worship on the sovereignty of God. He is sovereign, and I am not. He will work out all things in His perfect way, according to His perfect plan. I am amazed that the Creator of the universe would use me in His kingdom for His glory.

 

I am able to help others, to do His good works, only because the Holy Spirit lives in me and empowers me.

 

“Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly,

and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”

(2 Corinthians 9:6 NIV)

 

I will thank my heavenly Father for including me in His good works. I hope you will, too!