November 2, 2022
What does it say?
Believers should not show favoritism. They should have the kind of faith that produces good deeds.
What does it mean?
After his discussion on mature faith, James offered practical examples to illustrate what that should look like. Truly following Jesus impacts every area of life and drives believers to engage in the lives of other people just as Jesus did. Shallow faith is more impressed by outward appearance and success than by what is happening in a person’s heart. There is an outward evidence of faith, but it’s what a person does, not how he looks or what he says. Healthy faith expresses itself in actions that build others up and honor Christ. Good works and faith cannot be separated; they are proof that a person is right with God.
How should I respond?
According to today’s passage, is your faith healthy, weak, or dead? Healthy faith in Christ should stretch outside the walls of your church and home. The challenge is simple – go out of your way to put what you believe into action this week. Be alert to moments when you start to show favoritism to the people who are most like you. Look for ways to share your faith and show your faith to all kinds of people through actions that honor God. How will you activate your faith through obedience this week?