Be a Doer

James 1:22-26

We live in a world where we live by catchy quotes and flashy phrases. We take sentences out of context and whichever phrase fits our emotions at that time the best wins. We look for quick fixes which most of the time end up not really fixing any problem. Its no wonder that we have the same problem when it comes to God’s Word. As the church we’re notorious for taking scripture out of context in order to get a quick fix for something we’re struggling with. And the same struggle with the same sin keeps popping up and we question why. We read a devotional in the morning and say, “oh that’s a good point…” and go throughout the day the same way we would without reading it. Sometimes we realize this and we get frustrated because we think we’re spending time in the word and doing all the “right things” for a healthy spiritual life.

James 1:22 says, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”

Let that sink in. Do you live out the scripture you read? Do you believe it’s God’s truth? Do you believe it’s the only way to live if you’re God’s servant? These scriptures aren’t just tips on how to live a better and moral life, and I think that we sometimes blur those lines on accident.

In verses 23 and 24 James talks about hearing but not doing when he describes a man who looks at himself in the mirror and as he turns away completely forgets what he’s like. We cannot forget who we are in Christ. We cannot forget that our actions and our doings are because God has saved us from the worst death possible because he loves us with a gracious love we will never be worthy of.

We follow God’s law not for our benefit but out of a response of pure joy and faith of the gospel. (Phil 27) We live in the world but not of the world so others can see what we live for. Who we live for in hopes that they will want the same joy and salvation from this broken world. 

When you read God’s word, read it and let it sink in. Understand that the Lord of the universe is talking to you, giving you a choice to follow him and love him. And understand that he knows your heart. We are so focused on our external changes, but as cheesy as it sounds it starts with the inside. Let his word take you over so much that it can’t help but seep out. Don’t just read it and go on with your day. Read it and let it guide you through your day. Be a doer. Remember who you are in Christ.