I was always called a “good kid” (and still am I guess…) but for so long I didn’t feel that way. I didn’t feel like a good kid because of my sin. Several years ago, I made the decision I needed to go to church during the time my parents weren’t going. Not because anyone told me, but I felt drawn to the community and worship that I had there because I didn’t have that experience anywhere else. Just a few years ago I then made new friends that have since helped me mature in my own faith. I can claim this faith as my own.

Being a “good kid” is what I would rather have God say about me than someone else, my family or my peers. God is my true judge and I want to be pleasing to Him. By representing Him and obeying, others will see that I’m a “good kid” in that way, which will only be a byproduct of my faithfulness.

“…a byproduct of my faithfulness.”

I wouldn’t claim to know everything, I’m far from that. All I know is that I’m content, I’m learning, and I’m growing. Every day we’re given opportunities to slack off or take the time to spend time with God and His word. All too often I find myself failing and the days without God are noticeable – whether by my attitude and how I respond or just my mood in general.

So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”

James 2:17-18

In all that I do, it should be for the glory of God, not myself. By showing people who God is and how He loves through my actions and words, it points people to Him. I don’t have to be a preacher to reach people, I can be myself because I live in Him.