Tag: work

Faith That Acts

November 3rd, 2024

Scripture: James 2:17 – “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”

Reflection:
Faith flourishes only when it acts. As James teaches, stagnant faith is lifeless, lacking purpose and pulse. God calls faith to increase, to thrive, to reach beyond words. He commands faith to act, for without works, it remains empty and inert. Faith must be alive, expressing itself with actions that correspond to God’s word.

Abraham’s faith models this dynamic nature. His faith was not passive; it was marked by decisive action. Trusting God’s promise, Abraham rose early, prepared the altar, and set out to sacrifice his only and beloved Isaac. Each step he took confirmed his trust in God’s faithfulness. Rahab, likewise, showed a faith that acted courageously. She risked her life by hiding the Israelite spies. Her actions testified to her faith in God, showing her faith to be dynamic and living.

True faith does not sit idle. It listens, sees, and responds to God’s word or call. Faith rooted in trust must grow, expressing itself through tangible action. God designed faith to live, move, and reflect His heart through pertinent works. A faith that refrains from action misses the mark of its purpose.

Consider where your faith may have stalled. Ask God to show where He wants you to act, reach, or even lift others. Pray for discernment, then listen attentively for His guidance. Let faith rise within you with the momentum that urges, supplied by God’s word and Spirit. Faith that acts will give body to God’s intent and heal, uplift, and strengthen others.

This Bible-based faith does not stay safe and contained; it risks, serves, and believes. As with Abraham, active faith emboldens us, blessing others and glorifying God. God calls us to live faith out loud, beyond quiet conviction. He desires a faith that builds up others and brings His love and life into the world.

Today, seek the courage to step out. Ask God to awaken your faith, making it bold and authentic. Where can faith act? Let it bring hope and light. Trust that God will use your faith as you move in obedience.

Prayer:
Lord, teach me to live my faith. Awaken me and direct my faith to act. Amen.

Action Step:
Choose one area to act on faith today. Ask God to reveal it.

Recommended Reading: James 2:14-26
Treat the Knowledge of God as Life

May 27th, 2017

There’s a story about a proud young man who came to Socrates asking for knowledge.

He walked up to the muscular philosopher and said, “O great Socrates, I come to you for knowledge.”

Socrates recognized a pompous numbskull when he saw one.

He led the young man through the streets, to the sea, and chest deep into water. Then he asked, “What do you want?”

“Knowledge, O wise Socrates,” said the young man with a smile.

Socrates put his strong hands on the man’s shoulders and pushed him under.

Thirty seconds later Socrates let him up. “What do you want?” he asked again.

“Wisdom,” the young man sputtered, “O great and wise Socrates.”

Socrates crunched him under again. Thirty seconds passed, thirty-five. Forty. Socrates let him up. The man was gasping.

“What do you want, young man?” Between heavy, heaving breaths the fellow wheezed, “Knowledge, O wise and wonderful…”.

Socrates jammed him under again Forty seconds passed. Fifty. “What do you want?”

“Air!” he screeched. “I need air!”

“When you want knowledge as you have just wanted air, then you will have knowledge.”

And what’s the best knowledge there is? The knowledge of God.

Treat God’s Word or the knowledge of God as life. You cannot survive on this earth without it. Eat it and breathe it every single day.

It’s way more important than knitting, gardening, or whatever hobbies that you have that occupies your time.

And if you’re ready, you will find it.

Tag: work

Faith That Acts

Treat the Knowledge of God as Life