A Living Faith: James 12-20

Through the book of James we have truly seen what a Living Faith looks like. 

A living faith perseveres in hard times. A living faith seeks wisdom from above. A living faith overcomes temptation. A living faith doesn’t show favoritism, but seeks to love all people. A living faith shows the world good deeds that point people to a Creator God who loves them.  A living faith uses words to encourage and build up, not criticize or tear down. A living faith seeks humility in relationships. A living faith submits daily plans to the Lord. A living faith resists the devil and draws near to God. A living faith pursues peacemaking and is sincere. A living faith helps the orphans and widows. A living faith is an active, not just a hearing, faith. I am sure I am missing something that stood out to you. If so, I’d love to hear what it is! 

This week, we add two more attributes of what a living faith looks like. A living faith is a praying faith. A living faith holds its brothers in Christ accountable. These last verses can be challenging. Challenging in meaning (if we don’t have enough faith, will God not heal us?). It can also be challenging in practice (bringing back a friend who has strayed from their faith can be daunting). The results of embracing these challenges will be worth it!