The Substance of Faith

Scripture:

James 2:14

Dear brothers and sisters, what’s the use of saying you have faith if you don’t prove it by your actions? That kind of faith can’t save anyone.

Observation:

Simply testifying to have faith in God doesn’t speak to the person who is in need. A person who is hungry needs to have their need met before they will listen to what I have to say. Jesus healed the people and then they would follow Him to hear what He had to say. His faith had substance, something that people could touch, people need a connecting place in the natural realm before they can connect on a spiritual one. Jesus showed a genuine interest in the people and had much compassion for them. This moved Him to action. Faith is a doing word!

Application:

I can’t help thinking about the monks who live in isolation from the world when I read this chapter in James. These monks live a life of devotion to God but because they aren’t connected to the rest of the community, there’s no avenue for salvation. Similarly my life needs to be empowered by faith in action. Isolating myself and not being moved into action is fruitless. My life needs to speak of my faith through my actions. Where faith leads, action will follow.

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for being our example to follow. You are always meeting people’s needs. I desire to be one who is never afraid to engage with people to really listen and to follow through with whatever actions are required. I believe that as I continue to stay connected to you, that my life will overflow with compassion that moves me to action, ready to serve at all times.

Amen.

Tracey Bence