There is a big difference between “works of righteousness” and “works for righteousness”. Works of righteousness are good works that naturally flow from the redeemed heart and a renewed mind of an individual has obtained righteousness through Jesus Christ. Works for righteousness are actually a good works done with the intention of gaining or achieving righteousness through our actions. Many false religions practice works for righteousness in attempt to achieve holiness . Unfortunately many Christians who lack an understanding of the perfection of Christ’s work on the cross and God’s love also practice works for righteousness to gain God’s love. This is sad enough by itself but it also effects how they can love others because it is impossible to fully love others with God’s love if you are not fully receiving it yourself. God wants His love to flow through you, for that to happen you need to receive it and release it. 1 Corinthians 13 makes it very clear that good deeds can be done apart from love. If you are still trying to work yourself into a right relationship with God it is simply because you lack an understanding Christ finished work on the cross (Romans 8) and have not fully received His amazing love for you. I pray today for as Paul did in Ephisians 3:18-19 that you may comprehend the length, width, height, and depth of God’s love for you!
