What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? (James 2:14)
MY HUSBAND AND I LOVE country roads. Recently, while driving through the countryside, we came to a sharp right curve where the highway department had placed a warning sign. Wear and tear on the sign had damaged the bolts that held it in place, allowing the sign to swing downward, pivoting the bottom bolt. Now upside down, the sign warned drivers of an approaching left curve. Fortunately, the surrounding area was barren and the course of the curve was easy to see.
Wear and tear affecting our life has signs as well. Have you heard the phrase, “My heart is just not in it?” Actions are telltale signs of the condition of the heart.
Early believers wanted to know what was expected of them as Jesus followers. James explained that a genuine change of heart would produce a lifestyle change as well. He admonished them that words comfort a hurting soul but action proves what is spoken.
God plants the Holy Spirit in each of His children to constantly remind us of His unconditional love. Because of this love relationship with the God of the universe, love should be our first response to a world dying to know someone cares. A genuine heart change makes our actions authentic, a stream in the desert to a thirsty soul. This is an authentic sign of our relationship with Him.
Evaluate your behavior to see what it says about your experience with God.
Antje Hill and her husband spend their time between Mississippi and Michigan. She is passionate about her faith, her marriage, her sons and writing.
© 2018 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
