via TJC
What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food,
and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and filled," without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, "You have faith and I have works." Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.
James 2:14-18
If you’re expecting some “theological gem” to be unearthed from the preceding scripture reference… forget it. But these words, paired with a few decades of experience, will hopefully reveal some truth as we discuss taking action in service to God’s Kingdom.
I’m currently in the process of having some electrical issues dealt with at my house. At contract signing, this young fellow (electrician) assured us that he can fix the short, install the lights, and replace the ceiling fan with the new one we selected at the agreed upon time in the contract. He called and said he was running late on the first day. We agreed to move the time ahead 2 hours to accommodate his “issue”. He is currently 1 hour late past our reset. You know, I still have faith that he CAN do what he says he’ll do… but is his promise to actually DO IT worth anything? There is nothing to actually back up his credibility except for his words. My lights are still flickering. My can lights are not installed. I’m still looking at this old ceiling fan that I don’t like… There is no ACTION to validate the contract! I think you know where I’m going with this…
Daily Battle Order:
We’re not all meant to be Billy Graham or Mother Theresa. But know this: As Kingdom Men we are expected to honor God with the gifts that He gives us. Here's the crazy part: When you and I consider the price that was paid to adopt us (John 3:16) as God’s children, how is it possible that we refuse to take up arms in battle and serve Him with our best? The answer is: it’s not possible.
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so be deceived. Do what it says.” James 1:22
How dare God expect me to do things! Believing in Him is hard enough "work!" Am I not saved from the comfort of my Lazy Boy recliner! 😉 Faith without works is indeed dead! Works without faith is indeed dead!