Galatians 6:9–10 9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. 10 So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.
Why would anyone want to give up the effort to do good?
Doing good is not defined by worldly minds, popular opinion, or what one thinks or feels is pleasant and desirable. Good is solely defined by our Creator God and is governed by His will and ways presented in Scripture. Something is good if Scripture describes it as a thought, attitude, motivation, or action that honors the righteous character and will of God. “13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. 14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13–14)
Doing good is difficult and challenging because obeying God in heart and action frequently conflicts with selfishness and worldliness (i.e. What do I want? What do others think?). When we are doing good, we often find ourselves swimming against the current of worldly expectations and fleshly desires. Personal discomfort and worldly resistance or rejection are some of the components that make doing good hard. Whether we are trying to walk in truth and righteousness personally or whether we are trying to encourage others to walk in truth and righteousness, the effort is not easy.
It is not hard to understand why the commitment to do good is consistently challenging. But we are encouraged to pursue truth and righteousness because the Lord graciously promises to grant us the blessing of a harvest that will bring satisfaction and delight to us and others who seek to honor the Lord.
Don’t give up or give in, brothers and sisters in Christ. Doing good is hard work, but it is very rewarding.
