Be Good for Goodness Sake

eDevotion

Encouragement for your daily walk with God

Some people are of the opinion that only good people experience the goodness of God, but that is hardly the case. ALL of His creation, and in numerous ways, experiences God’s goodness. The Psalmist declared, “The earth is full of the lovingkindness of the Lord" (Psalm 33:5). Jesus said, “He [God—the Father] gives both the righteous and the unrighteous food to eat, a fire to keep warm, water to quench thirst. He gives us all blue sky, a warm sun, green grass, and beautiful mountains" (Matthew 5:45).

I have the feeling that if you or I were God, things would be very different. When someone ridiculed you or gossiped about you or spoke evil of you, wouldn’t you make rain fall on every lawn in the city but theirs? Or maybe send a small lightening bolt to ruin their perfectly manicured flowerbed? Or everyone in their company would get a promotion before them. Or you’d make their appliances only last a very short time. Come on; be honest!

Believers and unbelievers alike have relationships that bring love and happiness. Each can accomplish lifelong projects—paint, sing, write, innovate, build, invent, design—you get the idea. But sadly, some don’t thank the Lord for that, do they? Even the Psalmist knew that truth, “Oh, that men would praise the LORD for His lovingkindness" (Psalm 107:8).

Even though they take God for granted, He continues to pour out his lovingkindness—even on those who do not acknowledge Him, nor give Him thanks. And we should do the same. Loving our enemies is not an easy task, but that is what He did for us. Let’s be faithful representatives of Christ in the world. Let’s show a common grace as God does—to all men!