In what ways can we ensure our actions align with seeking good? Foundational Call: Amos 5:14 “Seek good and not evil, so that you may live. And thus may the LORD, the God of Hosts, be with you, as you have said.” Let God Define What Is Good • Psalm 119:68 – God’s character and commands set the standard. • Matthew 22:37-40 – Love for God and neighbor clarifies every choice. • 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 – Test everything; hold fast to good, abstain from evil. Cultivate a Heart That Loves Good • Proverbs 4:23 – Guard the heart; actions flow from it. • Romans 12:2 – Renew the mind with Scripture, not culture. • Psalm 139:23-24 – Invite God to expose hidden motives. Daily Practices That Train Us Toward Good • Soak in the Word morning and night (Psalm 1:2-3). • Practice self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5). • Meet with believers who stir up love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Look for concrete ways to serve (Galatians 6:10). Actively Reject Every Form of Evil • Amos 5:15 – “Hate evil, love good.” • Identify personal temptations (James 1:14-15). • Remove stumbling blocks (Matthew 5:29-30). • Fill the gap with what builds up (Philippians 4:8). Seek Justice and Mercy in Public Life • Amos 5:12 – Israel’s injustice drew God’s ire. • Micah 6:8 – Do justice, love mercy, walk humbly. – Conduct business honestly (Proverbs 11:1). – Speak for the voiceless (Proverbs 31:8-9). Persevere When Good Seems Costly • Galatians 6:9 – Do not grow weary in doing good. • 1 Peter 4:19 – Continue to do good while suffering. • Keep eternity in view; the harvest is sure (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Depend on the Lord’s Presence • Amos 5:14 links obedience to the promise of His nearness. • John 15:4-5 – Abide in Christ; apart from Him we can do nothing. • Walk by the Spirit; His fruit includes goodness (Galatians 5:16-23). Let Your Goodness Point Others to God • Matthew 5:16 – Good works shine light on the Father. • 1 Peter 2:12 – Upright conduct silences critics and glorifies God. • Integrate faith into work, family, and community with consistent kindness and truth. Living It Out Seeking good is a deliberate, daily pursuit shaped by God’s Word, empowered by His Spirit, and displayed through just and compassionate actions. When we cling to what is good and reject evil, we experience the life God promises and reflect His glory to a watching world. |
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