Matthew 5:16 (NKJV)
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
The praises of men are good but when they become the focus of what we do, then we get derailed. Though the works may be good and people praise us, in the eyes of God we have already received our reward if the motives of our heart are not pure.
When we do our good works, the purpose should be that God would be seen in us and receive all the glory.
But what does it mean to give God glory?
In simple terms, it is to make him known and acknowledged in this case as the power and influence of our good works. It is to lift him up and magnify him in the eyes of the people. It is to honor him and clothe him with splendor.
Joseph’s good works glorified God in the eyes of the Egyptians. In the midst of a wicked culture Joseph was salty and he shone his light through his words, actions and character.
Daniel was the same, his good works made foreign kings declare that there is no god great as the God of Daniel.
Our good works speak to that void in every human being pointing them back to God their creator because only he can fill it.
Our duty as God’s children is to make him known and to glorify his name both now and forever more. Amen.
Reflections
What emotions do you feel when praises are heaped on you for the good you have done.
Has anyone ever given God the glory because of your good works?
Does your life point others to God or to self?
