– Scripture:
Dear friends, do you think you’ll get anywhere in this if you learn all the right words but never do anything? Does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really has it? For instance, you come upon an old friend dressed in rags and half-starved and say, “Good morning, friend! Be clothed in Christ! Be filled with the Holy Spirit!” and walk off without providing so much as a coat or a cup of soup—where does that get you? Isn’t it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense? I can already hear one of you agreeing by saying, “Sounds good. You take care of the faith department, I’ll handle the works department.” Not so fast. You can no more show me your works apart from your faith than I can show you my faith apart from my works. Faith and works, works and faith, fit together hand in glove.
James 2:14–18 MSG
– Reflection:
Faith in Action
It’s easy to see someone in need or a situation that requires someone to step up and make a difference and hope that someone shows up. You might even pray, “God, send a deliverer, someone strong, talented, with Your favor, with Your blessing.” But what if you are the one you’re praying for? What if you’re the one to do great things, to set a new standard, to take your family to a new level, but you don’t recognize who you are? When we’re always looking to others, always counting on someone else, it’s because we’re overlooking what God put in us. There is greatness in you. There is talent, wisdom, creativity, and potential in you. Don’t overlook yourself as the answer to that prayer. Don’t discount who you are.
Where do we go from here?
We have more potential within us than we realize. Don’t remain stuck in an outdated version of yourself. Stronger, wiser, and more successful versions of you are on the way, with even greater favor. God has destined you to accomplish something amazing and leave your mark.
Our Prayer for Today
Father, thank you for bringing people into our lives so that we can be the answer to each other’s prayers. Thank you for the gifts, creativity, and dreams you have given us, which are all we need to make a positive impact on this generation. We will celebrate and develop all that you have given us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
