James chapter 1, Believe and "Do" the Word

Pain and problems test our faith and belief systems.  God uses trials to perfect us.  It is during these times that we prioritize our lives.  We are more able to differentiate things of importance from the trivia we all tend to get caught up in.  As we question the situation we are in we become more open to what God wants to teach us.  God is more able to convict our open and hurting hearts because now we are listening and searching for answers.  He can teach us, touch us, and heal our minds, bodies, and spirits.  He wants to make us whole.  He gives us wisdom and spiritual understanding.  We become more aware of God’s love and goodness.  Knowing God’s love in all situations; in sickness and in health, causes us to trust Him and His Word and His promises.  We feel His love, His  goodness, and His healing.  We do not doubt.  Faith is a gift. Faith is an action word.  God is growing our faith from little faith to great faith as we walk the journey with Him through our trials.

We are not to put our trust in riches and things of this world because they are fleeting and temporary.  When we receive God’s Spiritual gift of faith and His Crown of Glory, it is forever.  The world tempts us into sin and death.  God does not tempt.  Good and perfect gifts are from God, not of this world.  We, as believers, are of the Word, not of the world.  We know we are created by God.  We are His first fruits.  When we know this we want to honor God.  The Holy Spirit empowers us to be slow to anger and to lay aside sinful behavior.

We are not saved by our own works but once we are saved God does have work for us to do.  We are saved by Grace and Grace alone.  In James we are told to be doers of the Word.  God has a plan and purpose for each of us.  He has given each of us talents to be used, not wasted.  Believers are to be used of God for His Glory.  Religion without faith and without actions is dead.  We are in the world but not of the world.  We should act differently.    Our life and actions should reflect our beliefs.  Others should recognize that we are Christians by our love, actions, and works.  We are to be doers, not just hearers of the Word.