How can we ensure our deeds are done "in God" as John 3:21 suggests? Key Verse “But whoever practices the truth comes into the Light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been accomplished in God.” – John 3:21 What It Means to Have Deeds “Done in God” • Deeds originate in God’s power, not human effort (John 15:5). • Motives are purified by truth and light (Psalm 139:23-24). • Outcomes give glory to God, not to self (1 Corinthians 10:31). How to Ensure Our Deeds Are Done in God 1. Come Into the Light Regularly • Expose attitudes to Scripture’s searching brilliance (Hebrews 4:12). • Confess sin quickly; lingering darkness breeds self-reliance (1 John 1:7-9). 2. Abide in Christ Continually • “Remain in Me, and I will remain in you” (John 15:4-5). • Depend on His life for every task; prayerful dependence keeps efforts God-centered. 3. Walk by the Spirit Deliberately • “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). • Spirit-produced fruit (vv. 22-23) proves the work is divine. 4. Align With the Word Intentionally • Meditate on Scripture so plans begin with God’s thoughts (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 119:9-11). • Let the Word set priorities, methods, and goals. 5. Seek God’s Glory Exclusively • Measure success by whether Christ is magnified (John 3:30; 1 Peter 4:11). • Reject applause that diverts attention from Him (Matthew 6:1-4). 6. Live by Faith Persistently • “Whatever is not of faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). • Trust God for both ability and results (Ephesians 2:10). 7. Stay Accountable Relationally • Walk in fellowship where others can confirm God’s handiwork (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Transparency guards against hidden, self-serving agendas. Daily Habits That Keep Us in the Light • Begin each day surrendering plans to Christ. • Read and reflect on a portion of Scripture, asking, “What truth must guide today’s actions?” • Keep short accounts with God—confess as soon as conviction falls. • Pause before decisions: “Will this display Jesus or me?” • End the day reviewing where God’s power, not yours, carried the work (Psalm 92:4). Encouraging Promise “For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good pleasure.” – Philippians 2:13 As we stay in His light, abide in His Son, and walk by His Spirit, our deeds become unmistakably “accomplished in God,” shining for His eternal glory. |
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