For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” – Eph 2:10

In the previous verse Paul, in partnership with the Holy Spirit, described how true Christians do not work for their salvation “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” – Eph 2:9. 

After this declaration, He describes the place for works (verse 10).  Astoundingly we see that we are not just a random selection of cells, but are God’s workmanship.  This translation should be more appropriately labeled “His artwork.”  We are God’s artwork.  He carefully and masterfully put us each together, not randomly but as the Master Painter with the full pallet of paint.  We are His masterpieces.

As part of His masterpiece, and for our sanctification, He prepared our abilities, skills, and opportunities for good works.  These good works are not the same for everybody, they are individually designed for each one of us. 

Scripture details several aspects to these fully prepared potential good works.

  1. We were created to partner with God – God put us in the perfect place at the perfect time, from before time began.  Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
  2. We are fully equipped for good works – Eph 2:10 (above), and as Acts 1:8 details, we receive power through the Holy Spirit.  As believers, we have the Holy Spirit within us.  He is always with us.  Also documented in the last half of Mathew 28:20 is Jesus’ promise that he is always with us – “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
  3. God uses humble people – 1 Pet 5:6-7 – “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”  He works with the humble, and demonstrates His strength through our weakness.

Being about His business, or good works, was planned from before we were born.  God has enabled us and prepared everything we need to accomplish these good works.  This is not for salvation, but as a result of salvation.  We have all the skills, abilities, and power to do so, we just have to be courageous and execute.  We aren’t to worry, the Creator of the Universe and everything in it cares for us, His masterpieces.  He is with us every step of the way.

What next?  Pray.  Step out in faith.  He will meet your humility and courageous faith.  The results will be glorious.