Week of June 14th, 2026
Encouragement from God's Word
We firmly believe that our salvation is a gift of God’s grace, given to us through faith in Christ. Our works – any good works! – have nothing to do our salvation. To connect good works to our status as God’s children is a denial of Jesus’ work as our Savior. Our comfort in life is God’s grace and promised love that is not dependent on our good works.
At the same time, we also believe and know the Biblical call for good works. They may not save us, but we are eager to do good works.
In the following quote from Martin Luther, he reminds us of a few important points about good works. First, the motive is key. Second, through faith in Jesus, there are numerous opportunities for good works before you! (His reference to people trying to decide what works are good is referring to the idea that some “routine” acts aren’t good works - which they are, or that only special works are good works to God.) God has prepared ways for you to show your faith in your everyday life. The love, kindness, and generosity you display are God-pleasing.
All the world talks about doing good. But do you want to know how you are to do good? Listen. Do not act the part of those fools who examine the various works and undertake to select such as are good and to reject such as are bad, thereby making a distinction between the works as such. No, not so! Leave the works in one class. Consider one as good as another. Fear God, and be just, as he has said. And then do whatever comes before you. This way all will be well done even though it is no more than loading manure or driving a mule. (What Luther Says, p. 1512)
Through faith in Jesus, you are part of God's kingdom (that simple statement is a life-altering truth!). Live as his child in the attitudes and actions that guide you.
Ephesians 2:8–10
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
