What does the term for goodness sake mean to you? In ways, in my household growing up, it meant- did you really just do that? or you better be good (think Santa) for goodness sake-like get it together kids cause you want that shiny new toy.
What do we actually do in the name of and for goodness' sake?
The dictionary says good is being desired or approved of, having qualities of a required role, displaying moral virtue, or something enjoyable.
If I say to someone what they did was good....usually, in my world they did the right thing or did a job well done.
One of the fruits of the spirit is goodness. In this scenario the goodness or good is an intrinsic state of being or condition of having God's kindness or sweetness. It is a quality first recognized in believers because Christ lives within them.
So, to repeat the sentiment, what do we do, as an inherent state of Christ being in us, for the sake of His kindness?...it's easy to show kindness to those we love. It's easy to do good to those who have done well. How about those who irritate you? What about those who don't care or disagree or are downright mean?
To do good is different than being good.
Galatians 6:9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
Acts 10:38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.
1 Peter 3:17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil.
And because you are His, it works both ways:
Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Yes, Lord. You give goodness and that gives us the capability to pass on Your character and heart. Amen