TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? … I will show you my faith by my deeds. James 2:16,18b
Read: James 2:14-18
Listen: James 2
TODAY’S MESSAGE
James tells believers the reality of faith in their lives is tied directly to taking action. He gives the example of seeing someone in physical need and merely saying, “Good luck with that,” then walking away. Words without action do nothing. God sets the example of taking action by moving toward people who need a savior. God has compassion and sent Jesus to die for people when they could not save themselves (Ephesians 2:8).
James calls faith dead when it does not move into action. Our gratitude for what Jesus did for us should compel us to move toward helping others in need. Real faith sees a person in need and moves toward them to help. Our faith is shown by our deeds. So instead of looking the other way, we could take a meal to our neighbor who has had a death in the family. Or, when someone we know is diagnosed with cancer, we can call to talk and encourage them. Or if someone in our small group has car trouble, we can offer to drive them around while it is repaired.
TODAY: Ask God to make you aware of the needs of people around you. When you see a need, move toward that person to offer your help. If the person says they don’t need help, silently commit to praying for them. Listen to this week’s BEYOND THE WEEKEND PODCAST HERE for more about faith and works.
JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
Read Genesis 6-7. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Note the narrative around Noah and the flood and how this points to the saving work Jesus will do.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
