What are the works of God?
We know they are different from works that we think of.
Jesus went about His Father’s business.
Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent.
John 6:29
Love, patience, gentleness, self control, obedience to what the Lord Jesus asks of us.,
forgiveness, charity, kindness, love, loving your enemies, blessing those who curse you,
sharing the gospel, praying, worshipping our Creator, letting bygones be bygones,
going the extra mile, taming your tongue, avoiding gossip, believing God’s word,
humility, generosity, hospitality, faith, hope, doing good and not evil,
letting God repay others for their deeds, and many many more too numerous to mention.
And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
Colossians 2:23-24
People still get the works of God confused with work in the kingdom.
They also have a hard time understanding that we do not work our way into heaven.
Paul had much to say about works.. So did James. Both were inspirited by the Holy Spirit.
People then and now have had difficulties grasping the concept.
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Ephesians 2:17
And
Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:9
The scriptures do not contradict each other. It is all about the heart. Why do you work? For others to see?
For others to glorify you? To earn your way into the Kingdom of God? All fleshly reasons are not valid to God.
Ideally, we do what we do out of adoration and love for God.
Ideally, we follow His commandments because He asks us and on a voluntary basis.
We don’t earn our way. Jesus paid it all. It’s quite simple:
Where is your heart? Are your efforts fleshly or spiritual?
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9