Hurricanes have been in the news. Preparations were made to ensure a measure of security for those in the path of the storm. Members of the Army Reserves and National Guard were called up to active duty to assist in rescue and keeping civil order.  

    This reminded me of a cartoon I saw recently. A man and woman were looking frighteningly at a letter they received. The caption read, “It’s from our church…we’ve been called up for Active Duty!” 

    It was humorous and sad at the same time. There is no option in Lord’s army—everyone is on active duty! That is, each does according one’s ability, doing good for others, as to the Lord, And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ (Colossians 3:23-24).

    Consider these additional passages: 

• For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them (Ephesians 2:10). 
• And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith (Galatians 6:9-10). 
• in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works…(Titus 2:7). 
• Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world (James 1:27).
• As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God (1 Peter 4:10).
• who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works (Titus 2:14).
• And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful (Titus 3:14).
• And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works (Hebrews 10:24).

    Consider these New Testament examples:

• Dorcas made garments for widows. When she died, her good deeds prompted some to find Peter, who raised her to life again (Acts 9:36-43).
• Barnabas sold land and laid the money at the apostles’ feet to care for Christians in need (Acts 4:36-37).

    Despite these commands and examples, some Christians have little or no interest in the efforts of the church to serve. They are content in the pew. There are others who, at one time were active, but for various reasons decided to hand the reins to another, and join the ones who are content in the pew. It is true that aging presents challenges, but there are many godly seniors who rise to the call, and find different areas that allow them to continue serving. Praise God for their example of steadfastness!    

    Scripture makes it clear that God intended His people to be fully engaged in good works. As soldiers in the army of the Lord, we are always on active duty! 

Today’s Verse: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).

Today’s Challenge: Find a good work that inspires you to serve others and do it with all your heart and strength!

Audios available at http://christianwomanaudiodevotionals.abiblecommentary.com

By Teresa Hampton