Every Good Gift: A 28-Day Advent DevotionalSample

If the good life is a demonstration of hope like we learned yesterday, then the way that we spread hope is through our good deeds. Therefore, we cannot separate good deeds from the good life. But it is important to understand that we do not gain the good life because of our deeds, but rather, our good life compels us to do good in order to share the hope we have found. Good deeds shine the light of Christ into the world, and that light leads others to glorify God. Jesus says, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, emphasis added)

In Week 3 of this journey, we’ll reflect more on joy and good deeds. For today, we simply want to connect the dots between the good life and good deeds. 

Paul writes to Timothy, exhorting him to instruct his congregation to take hold the good life in this way:

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” (1 Timothy 6:17-19; emphasis added)

To take hold of this true life, we must live a life that is rich in good deeds. These good deeds spring from a hope that is secure and generous. Our good deeds are an expression of a life lived for eternity and not just for today. Deeds that are done, not to earn our hope, but to freely invite others into the good life that is possible when we put our hope in God.

Prayer: 

Jesus, help me to remember that my hope is not dependent on good deeds but that my good deeds are a light that helps others to find their hope in You. I know that my deeds are a way of sharing hope with others and inviting them into the good life, so may I always be rich in good deeds so that You are glorified. Amen.