When you know Jesus as the Lord of your life, good works naturally follow. Jesus speaks in Matthew 25 of the importance of good works done for God’s glory. “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me’” (v. 40). Giving freely, inviting others in, visiting those who are alone, etc., are the natural, visible fruits from those faithfully abiding in Jesus. On the other hand, Jesus condemned the efforts of the Pharisees who were concerned only about being seen and praised.
We’re about halfway into the first month of the New Year. Perhaps just a few weeks ago you had resolved to be more faithful this year in various ways. You may have set yourself anew to the doing of good works. By this time you may be painfully aware of how hard it is to remain faithful to our resolutions. The only way we can bear fruit is by drawing life from the True Vine. Even our intentions fall short. But our ever- faithful life source, Jesus, never fails.