Last night I was talking with a friend about the church and its reputation in town, and at the same time we both said, “Unfortunately, we are known for what we don’t do.”

We did not mean that we should not be the voice of concern in this age of moral laissez faire. Knowing what we don’t or shouldn’t do is important. But should it be the outstanding characteristic of our Christian walk?

My goal in life is not to be known for what I don’t do, but rather for what I do. When people look at me, I want them to wonder what makes me different. I want to be known for my love, and my joy, and my peace. I want to be known for my longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22,23).

“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 NKJV).

Let us strive in our Christian growth to do the good works that God has prepared for us to do. The don’ts should not be done. But let’s make sure we are doing the do’s.

Barbara Ann Oliver @ www.forthright.net