James asked and exhorted. . .
“ (14) What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? (15) If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, (16) 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? (17) So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” (James 2:14-17 ESV)
James went on to note Abraham — a great example of faith — who did not just acknowledge God’s request, but was willing to act on it. (James 2:21-23) It was the action of his life which clearly revealed the genuineness of his faith. His faith prompted him to step out in action! His faith was very much alive!
Because we have faith, what are we prompted to do? Because we are believers in God and His Will, what marks our response to life situations when we can meet a need? Is our expectation that others will take care of it, or are we willing to step up and do what we can?
Consider the following which someone has titled “The Christian’s Pledge.”
I will do more than belong; I will participate.
I will do more than care; I will help.
I will do more than believe; I will practice.
I will do more than be fair; I will be kind.
I will do more than forgive; I will work.
I will do more than earn; I will enrich.
I will do more than teach; I will inspire.
I will do more than give; I will serve.
I will do more than live; I will grow.
I will do more than be friendly; I will be a friend.
[author unknown]
Where is our life pictured there? Because of Abraham’s active faith, “he was called a friend of God.” (James 2:23) What a special designation! May our faith be alive! Let it prompt us to live and serve to the benefit of others and the glory of God. Being a true friend to others as we serve God’s purposes, wouldn’t it be wonderful for God to view us as His friend? Let us live for it to be so!
Have a great day LIVING WITH A WILL TO SERVE!
Carl
