We are building our lives, our character, our history, our testimony with every thought, word, action, reaction and response that we will have today. And even more important than our outwardly visible reputation amongst men — is how we are presenting ourselves before God.
God is not blind to our most personal and secret thoughts, desires, and actions. And when we are truly believing in God for His forgiveness and grace found in Christ Jesus, we not only seek repentance in turning away from sin, but we want to work to see the Good News spread and His Kingdom work here on earth expand and grow here as it is in heaven.
Salvation does not require work that resembles holiness — yet true saving faith always produces holy work — because Christ is now the holiness of God come to live in us.
Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.
2 Timothy 2:15 NLT
Life Application Study Bible
Because God will examine what kind of workers we have been for him, we should build our lives on his Word and build his Word into our lives-it alone tells us how to live for him and serve him. Believers who ignore the Bible will certainly be ashamed at the judgment. Consistent and diligent study of God’s Word is vital; otherwise, we will be lulled into neglecting God and our true purpose for living.
Lord, we ask that our day be your work in and through us. Help us top surrender every aspect of our lives, flinging open every door that was once locked away from your presence and influence — to now be overcome by your freeing grace and truth. Give us a hunger to seek your Truth, to know your Truth, and to live out your Truth — resisting evil instead of resisting you. It is only possible by the power of your Holy Spirit, only through the sacrifice paid by your Son Jesus Christ on the cross, only by the grace and perfect holiness of Almighty God the Father that we see evidenced in the whole Trinity at work in perfect harmoy throughout your Word and throughout our lives. Lord, make us a living testimony to your grave and your glory. Lord, like the prodigal returning to your presence, we ask you to make us your workers, we seek to do the good work of your Kingdom laborers. And in doing so, we find that it is not laborious, it is not a heavy burden, but it is a great and a celebration and a joyous and abundant life. Help us to be consistent and diligent in your Word and your will. Amen.
Harold J. Ballinger 