The concept of "doing good" is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's character and His expectations for His people. The skill of doing good is not merely about performing isolated acts of kindness but involves cultivating a lifestyle that consistently reflects God's righteousness and love.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible presents doing good as an essential aspect of a life that honors God. In Micah 6:8 , the prophet succinctly summarizes what God requires: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This verse highlights justice, mercy, and humility as core components of doing good.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul exhorts believers to engage in good works as a natural outflow of their faith. Ephesians 2:10 states, "For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life." Here, doing good is portrayed as a divine purpose for believers, intricately linked to their identity in Christ.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The ability to do good is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, kindness, and goodness. These qualities are essential for doing good and are cultivated in the believer's life through the Spirit's work. The Spirit guides and enables believers to discern and perform acts of goodness that align with God's will.

Practical Expressions

Doing good is expressed in various practical ways throughout Scripture. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus illustrates that doing good involves compassion and action, even towards those who may be considered outsiders or enemies. The Samaritan's actions demonstrate that doing good transcends cultural and social boundaries.

The early church provides another model of doing good. Acts 2:44-45 describes the believers as having "all things in common" and selling their possessions to distribute to anyone in need. This communal lifestyle reflects a commitment to doing good through generosity and mutual care.

Challenges and Encouragement

While the call to do good is clear, believers often face challenges such as opposition, weariness, and the temptation to conform to worldly standards. Galatians 6:9 offers encouragement: "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." This verse reassures believers that perseverance in doing good will ultimately yield spiritual fruit.

Furthermore, 1 Peter 3:17 acknowledges that suffering for doing good is sometimes part of the Christian experience: "For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil." This perspective encourages believers to remain steadfast, trusting that their efforts are pleasing to God.

Conclusion

The skill of doing good is a vital aspect of the Christian life, rooted in the character of God and empowered by the Holy Spirit. It involves a commitment to justice, mercy, and humility, expressed through practical acts of love and service. Despite challenges, believers are called to persevere, knowing that their labor in the Lord is not in vain.