Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. – James 2:17
I acted in faith today.
My faith was in the weather report I read before work this morning; I chose strappy heels over closed-toe flats based on the sun icon and lack of rain predicted by those who study the weather. At other times, I have allowed extra time to get somewhere based on the traffic report, put on a coat because of expected low temperatures, and taken a book along to kill time when I thought I would be waiting in line. Each decision was based on an unconscious but present belief that I had been told the truth. At minimum, I was willing to sacrifice something—time, comfort, or space—because I believed.
We act on faith all the time. It may be faith in a person to follow through on a promise, faith in a car that it will actually start when we turn the key, or faith in what we read or see in the media. In one way or another, faith underpins much of the action we take.
James says that faith without works is dead. Faith does not plot and plan works to prove its existence; works—meaning actions that demonstrate faith—are the natural result of faith that is truly alive. The challenge for us is to act based on our faith in Jesus. If we believe that He is the Redeemer, we will expect redemption. If we believe that He is the Bread of Life, we will go to Him when our souls hunger for more. If we believe that He is the Word of God, we will quiet ourselves and listen. If we believe that He is the coming King of kings, we will not be depressed by the trouble around us. If we believe that He is sovereign, we will hope to the end.
Though internal action may not be as obvious as choosing what shoes to wear, living faith in God will become clear to those around us as we act it out daily.
Lord, show us how to act out of the faith You have given. Thank You that Your faithfulness sustains us and makes our faith alive.