“But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed” (James 1:25).
TEXT — James 1:16-27
Message
Charles Spurgeon said, “When you see a man with a great deal of religion displayed in his shop window, you may depend upon it if he keeps a very small stock of it within”. In other words, men are great in acting religion but much less in practicing it.
The message of James to believers is to first become hearers of the word and then go ahead and do what they have heard. Until then, they will be fake professors at best. Their willingness to do what God says every time is the way to spiritual blessings. The things God expects them to do are clear from the passage. They should be good listeners who are slow to respond to criticisms. They should bridle their tongues, keep themselves unspotted from the world and take care of the fatherless and widows.
When Christians hear but fail to do what the word of God says, they bring ridicule to the name of the Lord. Paul says bluntly, “For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written” (Romans 2:24), in reference to people who only hear but fail to do what God wants them to do. It is not enough to call oneself a Christian; it is more important to obey the word of God always.
People will listen to Christians more if we conduct ourselves in more dignifying manners. The man or woman who fears the Lord is a living testimony anytime, anywhere. It is not enough to read and listen to the word of God. After reading and hearing, we must go ahead to do what the Word says.
Thought for the day
Christian character is best expressed in those who hear and do what God says.
Listed among “500 most powerful people on the planet” by the Foreign Policy magazine in 2013, Pastor (Dr.) William F. Kumuyi is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry (DCLM) headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria. DCLM started in 1973 as a 15-member Bible study group right in Kumuyi’s apartment at University of Lagos where he was a lecturer. His revolutionary Bible teaching on personal holiness and commitment to evangelism soon gained so much traction and resulted in a widespread revival.
Blessed by your message.
Will love to have the study regularly.
Inspiring
In a time where false religion is flourishing, this message is very timely. Thank you Lord.