Results

<<outcomes>>

God’s Word always brings results; it doesn’t return to Him without effect rather it accomplishes His intended purpose, though it may not be within our time frames. His promises will come to pass though He will not override the human will, He waits for us to respond. Am I co-operating so the outcome achieves His desire and not mine? (Gen 18:19; Prov 1:24; Isa 38:7, 46:10, 55:10,11, 65:1-3; Mt 23:37).

Christ suffered for our sins ‘to bring us to God’ (1 Pet 3:18). Paul wrote, “If you believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead you will be saved” (Rom 10:9). By His death and resurrection we can receive His new life with our future secured in heaven (Jn 10:28,29; Rom 5:16, 6:4; 1 Cor 15:21). We can only thank Him for the extraordinary outcome of His sacrifice and live a life dedicated to Him (Lk 15:7; Gal 1:4, 2:20; Tit 2:14).

The Bible is adamant: we are saved by grace through faith in Christ, it is not the result of our efforts, for even our righteousness is only filthy rags (Isa 64:6; Eph 2:8,9).

Results are seldom instantaneous. They require patience, persistence and faith. When people come to salvation often it is the result of various different people sowing, yet all have been instrumental for the outcome (Jn 4:37,38; 1 Cor 3:6-9). God would say to us, in faith and obedience sow His Word into the lives of others, pray and leave the end results in His hands.

sow into God’s Kingdom and be eternally rewarded. The result of Adam and Eve’s sin was condemnation for all people, while the one act of righteousness of Jesus dying for us brings justification and eternal life to all who accept Him (Rom 5:18, 6:22).  

Results can also be seen as consequences. We are under sin’s penalty by default, however we must choose Christ to be released of its eternal consequence. Jesus expects and anticipates the fruit of righteousness from our lives, while in contrast an ungodly person will produce undesirable fruit (Mt 12:35; Lk 6:45; Jn 15:5,16, 17:20; Gal 5:19-23; 2 Pet 1:5-8).

In response to our actions, a result is guaranteed; so do your best, and leave the outcome in God’s hands for “Will not the judge of the whole world do right?” (Gen 18:25).  He is a God of justice and mercy. Some things will only make sense when viewed from eternity, and not from our limited human perspective of the present. Pray as if it all depends on God while working as if it all depends on you. The trials we pass through are refining our faith so it may be proved genuine and result in God being praised (1 Pet 1:7). Thank Him for the good that will come, “For all things work together for good to them that love Him” (Rom 8:28).

guidebook for Christians, will help you fulfil your calling for “The entrance of your Word gives light” (Ps 119:130).

See also: cause and effects, consequences, experience, fruit, harvest, sow and reap.