Themes of Life - What are good works?

Galatians 6:10  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

My last post about about good works. Christians need to do those good works commanded by Scripture or they risk displeasing God. One of the primary good works of Christians is giving witness to God’s Truth and standards in a consistent life which glorifies God. Another primary duty is prayer and intercession for the Kingdom of God. The development of a Christian character is a key good work.

Are there others? They include feeding the hungry, being hospitable, clothing the poor, visiting the sick and prisoner, caring for orphans and widows who were without an income or jobs and and thus rather like the unemployed and marginalised, today. This means sharing what we have with those in need, if we have resources and any spare money; giving to Christian charities, workers and churches directly who are  helping those in need and/or sharing the Gospel ; visiting the sick and supporting them emotionally and if necessary, financially. One is to grieve with those who grieve and supposed to visit prisoners too - and some Christians do this. One should plan for sharing these resources, in some way.

Christ commands us to share the Gospel and love one another, and also one’s enemies. The Ten Commandments teach about loving God, respect for the elderly, not killing, not stealing.  There are also commands about how to treat one’s spouse with respect and love and exhortations to love in all circumstances.   This is not an exhaustive list.

When one is ill, it is very difficult to be active in good works, as they require a lot of energy. One is actually in need oneself, so one must not feel guilty about good works.  One can pray for those in need, if one has energy, and also accept the Christian charity of others with good grace.  There is nothing wrong with leaving money in one’s Will, if one does not have surplus money, in this life i.e. one is forced to live on benefits.

Matthew 25:35;  Matthew 5:16 ;Matthew 12:12;   Luke 6:27;  Luke 6:33; Luke 6:35 ; Ephesians 2:10 ; 1 Timothy 6:18 ; Hebrews 10:24;  1 Peter 2:12; 1 Peter 3:10-11 ; 1 Peter 3:13-14 ; 1 Peter 4:19