Faith That Works!

Scripture: James 2:14–17
"What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone."

Devotion:

James, however, is a stern prosthesis casting a glower of mild rebuke because he queries us on the thesis subject, "What good is it? It is no good at all." Can this kind of faith save anyone? What James is driving at is an answer to serve the purists: No—faithlessness cannot be obtusely judged as the means of salvation; it is because faith, if faithful, cannot help reveal itself in behaviors.

Everyone who identifies with Christ must realize the inextricable connection between active faith and faith, as the one saved is one other than one bringing love to the forefront as a behavior. It is as simple as that; no matter how sincere confession may be, it is also utterly false where it is not present in kind deeds meant for others. Without works to accompany what has been internally born out of vision, the image of love given to us through Jesus would be a fake one towards seeing a bottomless pit of mercy for those in need.

The middle walls of division between faith and works are just that—walls! Through works, faith is revealed. Faith is the tree; works, the fruit. Genuine faith always breaks out. In so doing, it turns us toward a contrite spirit, worship, loving our neighbors, and meeting their needs.

So, it is a celebration to meditate on your faith. Does it make you move? Does it work through actions? Do you see fruits wherein Christ is truly at work? If so, keep on moving. Nonetheless, if so, pray for God to wake up your heart to get you walking out what you confess.

Prayer:
Father God, Thank You for the gift of faith in Jesus Christ. Help me not to settle for words without action. Stir in me a faith that is alive—one that moves, serves, and loves. May my life reflect the truth of what I believe. Teach me to see the needs around me and respond with compassion and generosity. Let my works flow from a heart transformed by Your grace, bringing glory to Your name.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.