“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (Matthew 7:21-23)
It is quite possible to impress people, having all the signs of what they consider true spirituality. Depending on one’s idea of what God wants, that might mean being a miracle worker, or a social worker, or a theologian. But the only thing that matters to God is that we do His will.
Our service to God can be conditioned by what the circle around us calls good. What do they applaud? What do they commend? So many who think they are giving God exemplary service will be in for an ugly surprise when they meet Him. They will receive no praise at the judgment seat of Christ. They will be told that they already got their reward on earth.
The true worshipper of God has only one concern: to discover and do the will of God. Would we enter the kingdom of heaven? To get into God’s world often requires us to get out of our world which has been fashioned by our own and others’ narrow ideas and ideals.
Don’t live with a view to what those around you prize. Seek the honor that comes from above. Do the will of God, even when men think nothing of it. “For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:11)