What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?
James 2:14-16 NIV
Dear friends, do you think you’ll get anywhere in this if you learn all the right words but never do anything? Does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really has it? For instance, you come upon an old friend dressed in rags and half-starved and say, “Good morning, friend! Be clothed in Christ! Be filled with the Holy Spirit!” and walk off without providing so much as a coat or a cup of soup—where does that get you? Isn’t it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense?
James 2:14-16 MSG
Words are not enough when it comes to the work of God. He implores us to act. This is the reason we can feel drawn to action, yet sometimes do not pause to consider our words. Both are important and they go hand in hand.
Our speech must match our walk and our walk must match our speech. In this way God is able to shine through us and become real to those we encounter. As we refine our intentions for what God has commanded of us, let us set our focus on Him and not get distracted by what others might think.
The world can tell us that we are not equipped to help those around us. We might also feel as though it is too difficult to act in the midst of adversity. Yet this is where God is. He is ready and waiting for us to lean forward and walk in faith.
We do not have the strength to act alone. He wants to act in and through us. Let us not be filled with nonsense, but rather be filled with the resurrection strength of the Holy Spirit. We may not understand how to help, but let's take a step forward with Him and rest knowing that He will make a way.
Considerations for your planner:
- Do you sense that your actions and words match? Write down an example of the last words you spoke of encouragement to someone and the action you took in response to those words.
A Prayer for Our Community:
Father, Walk with us in everything that we do. We want to become sensitive to all Your nudging of our spirit. We want to be Your hands and feet. Help us to lean forward and not simply offer a kind word, but rather make us ready to jump into action. We want to grow our discernment in all our actions to help meet the physical needs of those around us. Amen.
Strengthen the Christian Planner Family by sharing your experiences and prayers. We'd love to hear a story or prayer about God's work in your life. Use the form linked below to submit your story.
