TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. James 2:19
Listen: James 2
TODAY’S MESSAGE
It’s easy to think that faith equals belief. But James says that faith is much more than belief. James tells us that if faith were only belief, then demons would be among those with the best faith! They believe that Jesus died and rose again. They believe that God created the entire universe. They believe that Jesus is the son of God. Yet they do not have faith because they do not submit to God’s authority.
In Luke 6:46, Jesus calls out those who call him Lord but do not do what he says. He suggests that anyone who calls him “Lord” but does not obey is like one who builds his house without a solid foundation. Authentic faith both believes and submits.
We struggle with this today too.
We believe Jesus died for our sins, but we don’t submit our lives to him. We make a decision for Jesus at summer camp but make poor decisions when we return. We’re in a small group but aren’t living in a way that honors Christ. We serve faithfully at Ada Bible but know there are significant areas of our life untouched by our faith.
The truth is that we all have areas of our lives which need work—but authentic faith submits to God. If you are submitting to God’s authority, let today be an encouragement to keep going. If you’re not, allow this to be a challenge to believe, follow and submit to your Savior today.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Take a journal or your computer/mobile and spend a few minutes with our Creator in prayer. Ask him to help you discern your actions and heart. Spend some time writing down what you believe about God and his son, Jesus. Then prayerfully reflect and ask, “Where is one place I can better submit my life to God today?”
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
