Read: James 1:22-27

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (v. 22)

Early in the 20th century, evangelist Billy Sunday said, “Going to church doesn’t make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you an automobile.” In other words, saying so doesn’t make it so. James says the same. People can listen to sermons or Christian music all day long, and memorize the entire Bible; but until the Word of God gets into their hearts and changes them, they are kidding themselves. Just hearing God’s Word isn’t enough—we must act on it!

James spells out specific ways to act on the Word of God. He insists that believers must watch what they say! Talking just to hear your own voice is foolishness. Our words should have substance and truth in them. We must choose our words carefully and use them wisely, remembering that words spoken in a fit of anger can do a lot of damage, and even render our faith “worthless.”

James is clear—once our faith is established, it must be demonstrated! In the first century, orphans and widows were considered the poorest and neediest citizens. Since life insurance and savings accounts as we know them today hadn’t been invented yet, widows and orphans were left destitute. But James says we have to be more than just concerned about the poor. He tells us that we have to take care of them! This is faith in action. This is doing; not just hearing.

Prayer:

God, impress your words in our hearts and minds, and help us to act.

Author: Susan Hetrick

https://woh.org/