James 2:19-26

Have you heard about Millard and Linda Fuller? The Fullers were successful in business and, yet, realized that despite their wealth, something was missing. They wanted their faith in God to be more than words, so they sold their possessions, gave away their wealth, and dedicated themselves to helping others.

Their faith in Christ led them to take action, and they started building simple, affordable homes for families in need. What began as a small local project grew into an international movement. Habitat for Humanity has now built and repaired thousands of homes worldwide, providing shelter for countless families. Isn’t that incredible?

Let’s read again from James,

¹⁹ You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.

²⁰ You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? ²¹ Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? ²² You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. ²³ And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend. ²⁴ You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.

²⁵ In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? ²⁶ As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. - James 2:19-26 NLT

The Fullers could have simply believed in the importance of loving their neighbours, but their faith led them to take tangible action. Like Abraham and Rahab, their deeds were a direct reflection of their faith. They didn’t just speak of God’s love; they demonstrated it through their selfless service. Hear again today that the combination of faith and deeds can be far-reaching and so powerful.

“Dear God, empower us to take action. May we hear the leading of your Holy Spirit and be filled with the courage to walk in obedience. Amen.”

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