engage
“But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.”
James 1:25 ESV
As followers of Jesus we should engage the world around us with His life changing message.
The book of James demonstrates practical commands in living out an authentic Christian life. Perhaps you’re thinking “What does that mean exactly?” Well, we are to look to the one who did it perfectly. The one life that walked in perfect truth and love— Jesus.
Throughout His life, Jesus spent much of his ministry among the outcasts and those neglected by society. His heart burned for the orphan, the widow, the sick, the lame, the underprivileged and for those trapped in their sin. Through Jesus’ life we see that we are not only called but commanded to show compassion toward the broken-hearted and the poor.
James had a heart to activate believers into action. He believed that a life changed by faith in Jesus should be visible. Although we are not saved by our good works or striving, but by grace through faith alone, when our faith is alive and active it should be evident.
Active faith seeks opportunities to engage the world with the life-changing message of Jesus. Our outward actions display the inward change that has taken place through the power of the Holy Spirit. How cool is that? The physical manifestation of our actions demonstrate God indwelling inside of us. We don’t have to strive towards perfection out of obligation or guilt. We simply give ourselves over through surrender knowing we are flawed and imperfect, yet God still wants to use us. All we have to do is make ourselves available so that His power can flow through us (1 John 4:4).
“Faith alone saves, but the faith that saves is never alone.” (Martin Luther)
In joy peace & love,
Riley Rae Baker
additional reading:
Genesis 15:6, Jeremiah 7:3, Ezekiel 36:19, Titus 1:16, 1 John 3:18, James 2:17-18, Philippians 2:13
reflect:
Is your faith actively engaging the world around you? Allow might you allow the Holy Spirit to work through you in order to become a doer rather than hearer of the word?
centering prayer:
LORD Jesus, through your power alone I pray my faith will show up in bigger and bolder ways through my life and actions. May I not merely hear your word, but be a doer of Your word. May I become someone who acts in faith because the love of Christ compels me to do so. I thank you that my faith and my actions will glorify You and You alone, Abba. I love you, amen.
