James 2:15-17 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, (16) and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? (17) So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

We have heard the argument for years… Is it faith or is it works? Thankfully, James is not telling his readers how to be saved since we know that salvation comes by grace through faith alone. Rather, the message James is conveying is that if your faith doesn’t motivate you to action, then it is really no faith at all.

I run this verse through my brain often. Am I willing to help out someone in need or do I just greet them and tell them to “have a nice day!” As I read through the book of James, I am challenged to do more in my walk with Christ than simply receive from God. It motivates me to do something…

There are many people in need around each one of us daily. We may encounter them on the streets, in our neighborhoods, at the grocery store, or even in the  church pew sitting next to us. Often they are silent about their need and trying simply to make it to the next meal.

Recently we have asked the Lord to open our eyes to those in need around us. When we pray this way He is always faithful to answer. And in addition to showing us the need, he has  always provided the resources for us to help.

When you and I are ready to help meet the needs of brothers and sisters in Christ we begin to look more and more like Christ. Jesus said that the world will know that we are His disciples by the love we have for one another.

Digging Deeper:

Isa 58:10; Luke 3:11; Matt 25:35-40

Apply It:

Has God placed you in a place to help meet the needs of others? If so, are you walking in faith knowing that Lord will provide above and beyond whatever you need to meet the needs he has laid before you?

Prayer:

Lord, I want to serve you to the fullest! Help me to find ways to reach others for the Gospel and to bring Glory to your Name. Amen