When the disciples returned to the Lord Jesus after performing their ministry of deliverance, did not the Lord Jesus say, "Rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven' (Lk10:20)?
The Lord is more interested in our life than in our ministry. Let us therefore give first priority to a spotless life. let us repent with deep sorrow and be delivered from our unsanctified state. We need to first sanctify ourselves before we call upon the name of the Lord Jesus to minister to people.
Many will say to the Lord, "Lord, Lord, have we not... in thy name done many wonderful works?" But what does the Lord say to them? "I never knew you" (Matt 7:22, 23). But in another place the Lord says, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matt 5:16).
So the Lord Jesus expects us to shine by our good works rather than by the wonderful works which may not glorify the Father's name. Good works are related to the fruit of the Holy Spirit which is, love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance, whereas wonderful works relate to the gifts of the Holy Spirit such as, gift of healing, casting out devils, miracles etc.
Our character, which is displayed through our good works, is more important than our gifts which consist of wonderful works.
- Late Pas.T.U Thomas, in Morning Manna
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