Consecration and Goodness
“It is God’s will that by doing good, you might silence the ignorance of foolish people who think you’re a danger to society.” — 1 Peter 2:15 (The Message)
In today’s society, there are increasing calls for the Church to remain silent. Some argue that faith should be a private matter—our good deeds welcomed but our beliefs disregarded. Others maintain that acts of kindness and compassion should be conditional, given only to those willing to embrace the Church’s message first. However, neither of these positions align with the teachings of Jesus. As His followers, we are called to embody His love, serving others without expectation, while remaining steadfast in our faith.
Our mission is not to coerce belief but to live in a way that reflects God’s goodness. True goodness, rooted in consecration, mirrors the character of Christ. When our lives are aligned with God’s heart, we reveal a love that has the power to transform. Our words alone will not convince others of God’s presence, but our actions can speak volumes. The goodness we display should be a testament to the faith we profess.
Unfortunately, trust in the Church has been eroded by individuals who fail to practise what they preach. Gandhi’s well-known words ring true: “I like your Christ, but I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.” When our actions contradict our message, we cannot expect others to see Jesus through us.
The answer lies in consecration—a daily surrender to God’s love and truth. Before we can call others to follow Jesus, we must first commit ourselves fully to Him. A life dedicated to Christ radiates goodness that naturally draws others in. As William Wilberforce once said, “One of my great aims is to make goodness fashionable again.” This kind of goodness is not merely performative but deeply rooted in our relationship with God.
A life purified and devoted to Christ reflects His faithfulness and beauty. A proud pastor cannot exemplify a humble Saviour. A self-serving leader cannot point others to a selfless Christ. And a life of double standards cannot showcase the singular focus of God’s Kingdom. We must strive for sincerity and integrity, ensuring that our actions align with our faith.
People are drawn to love, not to condemnation or hypocrisy. The example we set is just as important as the message we share. By living out our faith with consistency and sincerity, we create an environment where others can see Jesus through us.
For Reflection and Prayer
How can you recommit to goodness today through your choices? Do your priorities align with God’s desires for your life?
Are there areas where you need to surrender wrong behaviours or attitudes? What distractions pull you away from God?
What changes need to take place in your life and ministry to better reflect Christ’s glory?
Who can support you in this journey of recalibration and consecration?
Let us strive to reflect God’s goodness with authenticity, inviting others to encounter Jesus through the way we live and love.
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