Faith In Action
“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
This is one of the boldest verses in the Bible. James didn’t sugar coat his message. He wanted the most for God’s followers, which is why he believed that when you experience faith in God, you will follow Him with godly actions. What God does within you will inevitably express itself outside of you.
Our actions will always follow our faith. James further says, “As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.” Throughout this passage, James points to Old Testament stories of faith in action. Abraham’s faith was expressed through his righteous acts. Rehab acted on her faith by giving protection to the spies of Jericho.
This does not mean that their actions were required for their faith to be valid. However, their outward actions proved their internal connection to God. Your actions reveal God’s interaction within you. James is saying that when you experience real faith, it produces real results.
How would your life change if your actions revealed your faith? Would you give your comfortable seat up for another on the bus? Would you take the time to help a friend study for a big test? Would you dig into your piggy bank to bring your elderly neighbor some flowers to brighten her day?
A changed life is proof of a changed heart.
Reflection: Do your actions prove God’s interactions with you?