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Hebrews 6:10
“For God is not unjust; he will not overlook your work and the love that you showed for his sake in serving the saints, as you still do.”

It is a cardinal part of our doctrine that we are saved by grace not by any work that we do.  This is an outstanding part of all our preaching and teaching.  But it should never come to mean that what we do does not matter!  Far from it.  As this verse from Hebrews shows, our work through the church deeply pleases God. 

Throughout the Bible we are shown the right way to live, Time after time we are encouraged to heed God’s will.  Jesus showed us that doing the will of God is like building a house on a rock-solid foundation.  That’s how important it is. 

In the Revelation to John we come across this astounding verse, “And I heard a voice from heaven saying, ‘Write this:  Blessed are the dead who from now on die in the Lord.’  ‘Yes,’ says the Spirit, ‘They will rest from their labors for their deeds follow them.’”(14:13).  Also recall that Jesus told us to store up treasure in heaven.

Note in the verse from Hebrews two things.  First, the service is to the people of the church (“the saints”).  Second, the primary characteristic of the service is that it is done in love.  We are to serve all people in love, but the church has a special consideration.  The love we offer in deeds is for the sake of God.

Does it matter how we live?  Yes!  Our salvation is by grace but from the Holy Spirit of God we are stirred to works of love for the sake of God.

Please pray with me.  “Thank you, Lord, for revealing your will for us.  Thank you for the command to love.  Help us to live lives that glorify you and turn people towards you.  We ask it in the name of Jesus.  Amen.”

Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men and women that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” (Mt. 5:16)