Real Faith is More Than Words
In the United States, many people say they are Christians. In fact, several recent studies reveal about 70% of people make that claim.
And, yet, many of these people appear to live according to their own rules, not by trusting in God’s Word. What they say about their faith and how they choose to live don’t line up. Real faith is more than just the words they say.
For instance, I could say I’m the best dancer in the whole world, but that wouldn’t make it true. And the moment I started dancing, you’d know it wasn’t true.
Just because you say you have faith doesn’t mean it’s true. This is what James is addressing in today’s verse: What’s the use in saying you have faith if it doesn’t show up in the way you live and the things you do?
James isn’t saying we are saved by our works. The Bible is clear that we are saved by faith in Jesus, nothing more and nothing less. But our attitudes and actions should be evidence of our faith.
This is the difference between a fake faith and a real faith. During times of pandemic and upheaval, our response should come from our faith and not our fears. This is when we get to put our faith into action.
There are thousands of promises from God in the Bible. You need these promises to stay stable and strong. But to access those promises, you need to fully trust God. That’s the kind of faith that will lead to answered prayers and a changed life.
So how do you know if you have real faith, one that will stand up to life’s biggest pressures? Take a look at your actions and see if they back up what you say you believe.
As you do that, remember there is no condemnation in Christ. If you think your faith hasn’t been real, then tell God. Tell him you haven’t been living according to what you believe. Tell him you want to do that right now, and watch how he begins to transform your life.
Talk It Over
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- What are ways we can show real faith during tough times?
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- How does your faith go beyond mere words? In what ways does your life match up with what you say you believe? In what ways do you need to change?
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- In Matthew 7:21, Jesus says, “Not everyone who says that I am their Lord is going to enter the kingdom of heaven. The only people who will enter the kingdom of heaven are those who do what my Father in heaven wants” (NCV). How does this verse relate to today’s devotional?
We Are Saved by Faith
James 2:14 | What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?