James 2:14 (NLT) [bible-link v=”James+2%3A14&version=NLT” c=”light”]
What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions?…
Have you ever found yourself in a predicament where you have had to back up your words with your actions?
Perhaps it was a business deal, on the sporting field or a promise you made to your child that you would buy that toy (which is now sold out in all stores!).
Whatever it may be, each of us can promise the world with ease, but the struggle arrives when we actually have to deliver on those promises.
The apostle James articulates that any one of us can say we have faith, but that faith requires action.
On first glance, this may appear to contradict the gospel of grace that the apostle Paul articulates in the book of Romans and other New Testament letters. But, it’s quite the contrary.
James is explaining that our faith is simply the heart’s response to God’s grace. Works of faith are outward evidence of an inward transformation. I don’t outwork my faith so God can love me; I outwork it because God already loves me and I am compelled to respond to that kind of love.
Put it this way – we are not saved by good works; we are saved for good works. God has a plan for your life that involves outworking your authentic faith.
God frequently reminds me that it’s more powerful to see a sermon. If I preach on kindness on Sunday, showing it in action on a Tuesday or a Friday speaks volumes.
The greatest declaration of the gospel is a demonstration, not just an explanation.
