Ephesians 2:8-10 (NKJV)
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
Do you ever wonder why you were born in the time and place where you were born? How come you don’t have to struggle to survive when many do? Did you do or say something special which gave you the great life and things you have and put you in the position to be of assistance to others? Ephesians tells us it is by God’s grace alone. You did not choose the time and place of your birth. God did that for you. But He has a plan for your life to prosper you. It is your job to discover that plan and walk in God’s ways wherever you are. You don’t have what you have purely by your own hand and sweat of your brow. God gave you your life and good gifts. You have been blessed!
But here is consideration. God created us to do certain things according to His plan. You are His workmanship. More importantly, you were created to do good works. What does that mean? This verse tells us we were “created in Christ Jesus for good works.” That means we are created in His image and likeness and designed to do good works in His name. Are you doing good works in His name or yours? Do you give glory to God for all He has done for and through you? It goes on to say that these plans were “prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” So what did God plan for you today? Was it to go on a mission trip? Is this about your desire to share or did God destine you to volunteer with the Hearts for Honduras Dental team or some other group? Do you even have a choice? It says these works were prepared “that we should walk in them”. The key word is should. You do not have to walk in them but you should. You do have the choice. Which path will you walk? Are you going to bring glory to God through your walk?
When you decide to volunteer, what is it that makes you decide to help others? Is it that still small voice inside speaking to you? For me, God speaks through my subconscious. I don’t have the answer (sometimes, I don’t even know what question to ask.) or the idea and all of a sudden, the answer is clear. There is the whole plan with all the details. And the feeling is so strong that there is no doubt it came from Him. It is just knowing. It is walking by faith. Have you experienced anything like this? Where do you think these feelings come from? Better yet, what will you do about them? The next time you hear His voice or get “that” feeling, how will you respond? Will you agree with God’s plan for your life and bring glory to Him? I hope so! Walking God’s path is always the best route. Try it for yourself!
Father, we thank You that You are patient with us and give us many chances to listen and follow You. To whom do You wish to speak through our lives today? As we look back, we can see all the places and times when your plan was the best way for your people to go. We are Your people. Be patient with us today. Give us the understanding and the strength to do Your will and walk in Your ways today; in Jesus name.