What Good Shall I Do This Day? 

“Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, ‘Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?’”
Matthew 19:16 (NIV UK) 

As a young man, Ben Franklin developed and kept a rigorous schedule in an attempt at self-improvement. Every day he rose at five in the morning and asked himself a single question: “What good shall I do this day?” That’s an intriguing question, but as Christians, we could modify it to read something like this: “What good is God already doing and how can I join in?”

The new year is a time when many take time to pause and look at their priorities.  It’s easy to be overwhelmed by daily life. We have so much going on around us: paying bills, taking our children to school, and going to work. Then factor in making meals, keeping up with our favourite TV shows or reading another book, and it’s tough to find the time to do good. Participation and involvement with our Living Lord on mission, however, is a crucial part of our growing in faith. Joining with him as he ‘does good’ is one way where we become refined and perfected in his image. See what James writes: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says…For whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do” (James 1:22, 25).

Now, don’t get me wrong. The work of salvation has already been accomplished. But just because we’ve been reconciled doesn’t mean we’re called to sit back on our laurels. Instead, we’re able to participate in the redemption that he is continually working out. And our co-operation with our Lord is part of that abundant life.

Let me encourage you to look for opportunities in your life joyfully and freely to go to work alongside our generous and great God. You’ll be amazed at what he can do in you—and through you—as you partner with him. 

Prayer
Many think, Gracious Father, that we do good deeds to gain eternal life. Rather, we do them in response to the life of sacrifice you gave for each one of us. But there is still much good that needs to be done. In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen 

Study by Joseph Tkach

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About the Author:
Joseph Tkach is the President of Grace Communion International (the Denominational name of The Worldwide Church of God UK), and resides in California, USA. You are welcome to attend one of our local Church congregations located throughout the UK.  For details of your nearest local congregation, check on our website, www.wcg.org.uk under the ‘Churches’ tab, or ring +44 (0)1858 437099.

Contact:
Email:  admin@daybyday.org.uk