By Our Works, We Shall Be Known

Moroni 7:5-11 we are told all about "works."  By our works we shall be known.  What are works?  They are acts of service, words we say, how we treat strangers and neighbors, what we say within our mind as someone treats us badly.  We remember "Faith without works is dead."  But it goes beyond that.  Yes, we need to do works, serve, fulfill callings, home/visit teach, etc.   But our works are not enough.

"...if their works are good, then they are good also."  Our prayers, our acts of service profit us nothing unless we do them with real intent.  We are told that it is not counted unto us as righteousness.  So just looking at our acts, they could be counted unto us as if we did not serve, not act depending on our inner feelings.

We have already discussed the "intent" we use to act, or serve, or give.  If we did any of these acts grudgingly, it is as if we did them not.  "...It profiteth us as nothing..'

"A man being evil cannot do that which is good,"  and "...a good fountain cannot bring forth bitter water."

"All things which are good cometh from God; and that which is evil cometh of the devil."

So, as we serve, give, fulfill our calling visit the sick, etc, will it be counted unto us as good, or will it be as if we did not do it?  Our attitude will determine this.

"Every thing that inviteth  and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve Him, is inspired of God."  It is interesting to note that doing good will entice us to love God and serve Him.

So no matter how much good we do, if our attitude is negative, and we do it out of obligation, not out of love for God it is counted unto us as naught.

This concept is taught as we proceed along the path toward Charity and Zion.  So, we need to assure we are serving and giving with the proper attitude.  Maybe we need to work on that?

We are told as this subject is concluded that it is giving unto us to judge.  We are counseled to make sure that we do not judge that which is good to be evil, and that which is evil is of God.

The next verse (16) we are given the sure way to know good from evil.  Next Blog,  on Wednesday, we shall discuss this.