But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. - James 2: 18
Our working definition of faith that works continues to bless us as we examine it even closer. We have already noted faith that works involves unwavering trust. We notice next from our definition that the trust at the root of faith that works amounts to mere lip service unless and until it is put into action. That is to say, this trust doesn't just talk. It takes steps and walks! This reminds me of the story of a famous tight rope walker who proposed to push a wheel barrel across Niagara Falls. A great crowd from around the world gathered to witness this fantastic feat. As the tight rope walker approached the rope which stretched across the mighty waters, he asked: "How many of you believe I can push this wheel barrel across the falls on the tight rope?" The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, which indicated their confidence in his ability. Then, he asked: "Now, which one of you wants to ride in the wheel barrel?" Needless to say, he was immediately met with silence and no volunteers. Faith that works is not a matter of you simply saying: "I believe." It only proves itself to be real when you back it up by riding in the wheel barrel! Faith that works walks through seas on dry land and knows God will hold back the water. Faith that works steps out of the boat on to the waves at the Lord's command. Faith that works pour water into jars and waits for it to become wine. Faith that works goes to see the priest while leprosy still abounds. Faith that works dips in muddy water to get cleansed. Faith that works applies for a job for which the applicant is not fully qualified. Faith that works sets the table when the cupboard is bare. Faith that works registers for college before all the tuition is paid. Faith that works acts as if God has already worked. You can't tell if your faith works until you put it to work. James was right. Faith without works is dead. (James 2: 14-26) Pastor Benjamin Morris 🙏🏽
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