The Prodigal's ReturnNäide

Now what?

Randy Harmon

[Galatians 6:10 NASB] So then, while we have the opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.

There seem to be a number of people in Christianity who think that salvation through faith in Jesus Christ is the end of their journey with the Lord. On the contrary, scripture clearly instructs us to grow in maturity and use the gifts given by the Holy Spirit to serve the Kingdom of God. In many ways, salvation is just the beginning of our walk with the Lord. To be a disciple means to follow Jesus and His teaching.

The local church is the place where we find encouragement, are held accountable, and work together with other believers in ministry. We enter corporate gatherings to worship, get a little glimpse of what eternity will be like, and then depart to serve.

So many who do participate in weekly gatherings come, get fed from God’s Word, then never do anything with the nourishment they receive. One friend of mine recently said, “Don’t complain that your church is not feeding you if you never show up for dinner.” Corporate worship is important, and we should “show up.” The next step in following Jesus is to find a place of service where God can put our gifts to work in serving Him and reaching those who do not yet know Jesus as Lord.

Christians are not saved by what they do, but salvation will produce in them actions that look like Jesus.

Lord, thank you for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Help me to be faithful to You, Your church, and in my serving You through the gifts and abilities You have given. Amen.