Devotional -Snapshot 11 - For His Glory

"He saved us and left us here because He has work to do-very specific work." Beth Moore

"But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:3-10

In God's great plan of goodness He decrees the use of us to carry His goodness, good deeds, about. The world is blessed by God as Christians act. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" Matthew 5:16. God ordains our good works for His glory. ...Awesome!

On our anniversary trip we went into stores with paintings. Some drew us in. They were beautiful, nostalgic, peaceful. Invariably we discovered they were Christian. Thomas Kinkade - the quaint cottage scenes and wonderful display of light and color. Another painter - children portraits: playing by the sea side, sitting on mother's lap, tea party with dolly, sunlight streaming through the window bouncing off the golden hair. On the back of every picture "for the glory of God". William Phillips - an era gone by, the 1930 and 40's, a well-lit home at dusk, a 4th of July celebration, picnics, a snowy road. Underneath his name we see a cross. T. Dubois - dramatic depictions of Noah's ark: multi-colored animals and birds flocking to the massive boat, a sun beam streaming through the expansive build up of clouds. The storm is coming "But I am still with You."

This reminded me that God is being glorified through the hands of men and women around the world. I was ministered to by these artists. Their good deeds were ordained. Imagine people around the globe buying their works and hanging them on their walls ...a little glimpse of God. Their paintings were prepared beforehand in the mind of God.

So my friend Margo's career, Debbie's support of her husband, Jan's hospitality, Abby's crafts, Sue's cookies, my children and even my laundry ...all ordained and part of His great plan to display His goodness to the world. Thank you dear Jesus!

List some of your abilities that God can use for His glory. Pray for other people whose talents you appreciate.