SCRIPTURE - James 1:22-25
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
OBSERVATION
To look in the mirror, at your own face, and immediately forget what you saw suggests that you probably didn’t care enough about your appearance to take a meaningful look in the mirror. And while we shouldn't be consumed by our physical looks, we should certainly be invested in what we look like spiritually.
This passage pulls few punches. A listener of God's Word who doesn't follow God's Word doesn't actually care about the Words they listened to. But, the one who does really value the Word will see its perfection and experience its blessing in their own lives.
APPLICATION
So, are you a "listener" or a "do-er"? No one is perfect; we know this, but we should regularly take time to reflect and evaluate how well we've actually been putting God's Word into action. Is there something you’ve been doing you know isn’t God’s best for you, but you've continued to do it anyway? It might be time to be a “do-er” and leave that behind.
Take note that this isn't only about “not sinning.” Are you seeking to really live out the scriptures you read or are taught at church? It’s easy for us to come to church, agree with what’s said, and leave and live no differently than we came in. Are you looking intently into the Word, letting it challenge you and shape the way you live your life?
PRAYER
Today's prayer is pretty simple. Ask God today to help you to be a "do-er." Ask Him to help you listen to His Word well and let it change the way you live. Open up your heart to be challenged to let some things go and to take up new disciplines.
"God, is there anything from you that I've heard, but not yet done? Help me today to see that doing that thing doesn't earn love from you, but helps me to experience the good You have in store for me. I want to follow you to the fullest; help me do it. In Jesus’ name, amen."
Comentarios