But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away, and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing. – James 1:22-25
We are called to live out our faith, allowing our trust in God to be reflected in our lives. The context of this scripture starts with being slow to speak and quick to listen, reminding us that human anger does not produce righteousness. We are encouraged not just to hear but to let the truth of scripture drive us to the altar for God’s transformation. Are we cultivating love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, and self-control? Is God’s word influencing that transformative work? Do you truly believe these words are for your benefit?
Let’s be honest; trust and belief can be challenging. Do I trust God enough to release control? Am I like Mary, sitting at the feet of Jesus, or like Martha, busy with things that may not matter?
The work done within us will manifest outwardly. If it is not done internally, then our outward actions will hold no merit. In other words, we need time at Jesus’ feet before we can engage in the work of Martha. When this work is done, it will not be motivated by comparison to others but rather done for the glory of God. This is how we build on the foundation of Christ.
Matthew 7:26: “And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand.”
As I wrap up this week in Kentucky, the scripture from James is a perfect fit. The Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief are the doers of the word. We have had an incredible week with many coming to know Christ through our works and loving them during their hardest times.
1 Peter:
2Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; 3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
Being a Deacon Has changed my perspective in a lot of ways.It is definitely not easy at times. Sometimes I wonder if I actually measure up to what it takes to be a Deacon or if that’s just thoughts of special warfare. This is a position that I take very seriously. One day I hope to hear well done my faithful servant. The one thing that scares me the most. Is that one day he may say to me Like he did matthew. ‘I never knew you; depart from Me.
7:21-23
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me.
In the end that’s all that matters is knowing Him.
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
Sometimes it’s difficult to stay motivated, especially when it’s hard to see the fruits of our labor. But we must trust that God is working in ways that we cannot see, and we will one day reap the reward.