WORKING FOR CHRIST
Working for Christ is one of the greatest privileges given to a redeemed soul. The Bible says that we are “laborers together with God” and that “each one will receive his reward according to his own labor” (1 Corinthians 3:9; 3:8). Think of a faithful worker in a vineyard, toiling under the kind and watchful eye of his supervisor. Every movement of the hand, every seed planted, every burden carried, is seen and remembered. Our Lord is not a harsh taskmaster but a gracious Shepherd who delights to bless His servants. His watchful gaze is not to condemn but to strengthen. He does not drive us with whips of fear but draws us with cords of love (Hosea 11.4).
Anything done out of love for Jesus is a good work. The Bible says that we are to “walk in good works” and to “let our light shine before men, that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven” (Ephesians 2:10; Matthew 5:16). We are to be careful to maintain good works, for these things are good and profitable unto men (Titus 3:8). Good works are not the root of salvation, but they are its fruit. We are not rescued from the abyss of sin and ruin by our own labor, but by grace through faith in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Yet when His mercy lifts us from the pit of corruption, He sets our feet upon the Rock and builds us into His spiritual house — the body of Christ, the temple of the living God (Psalm 40:2; 1 Peter 2:5; Ephesians 1:22-23)
In that holy fellowship we belong. We are called, not only to believe, but to work out our salvation with reverent diligence, knowing that God Himself works in us to will and to do His good pleasure (Philippians 2:12-13). Every act done for love’s sake becomes sacred. To visit the sick, to comfort the weary, to speak a kind word, to serve unnoticed — all are offerings of worship when done unto Christ (Colossians 3:23-24; Matthew 25:40) He who gave a cup of water in His name would never lose their reward (Mark 9:41).
So do your good works, not to be seen by men, but by the eyes of the Lord who searches every heart (Matthew 6:1-4; 1 Samuel 16:7). Rest in Christ, for the work of salvation is finished (John 19:30). You do not labor under fear, but in the freedom of grace. The cross has turned duty into delight and obedience into love. Freedom means peace, and gratitude becomes effort. The more we love Him, the more we long to serve Him (2 Corinthians 5:14-15).
Therefore, like Jesus, go about doing good (Acts 10:38). Whether your deeds are great or small, perform them as an act of devotion to the Master. Nothing done for Him is wasted. Every unseen kindness, every humble task, every quiet act of faithfulness ascends like fragrance before the throne. He takes note of it all and records it as the labor of love that flows from a heart redeemed by grace.
Bryan Dewayne Dunaway
