Practical Faith

What does it profit...if someone says he has faith, but does not have works? If a ... sister is naked and destitute of daily food and one of you say to [her], 'Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,' but do not give [her] the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? James 2.14-16


I read this verse and can't help but think of the prostitute; of her plight and all who talk about her and give pity, but don't do the practical. They don't take her in, clothe and feed her or listen to her story. So many promote her injustice. They use her testimony to remind us the 'less fortunate' need our help. But never do anything to help rescue her from her destruction through the power of Jesus.

What does it profit to simply 'understand' and 'sympathize' but never pray for her soul and safety?

What is it to continually buy cup after cup of coffee, but never give money or donate clothing to give her?

Why do we talk in circles about her, but never talk to her?

Mercy is not given through lip service among men, but with the hands and wallet. To continually lift up intercession on her behalf, knowing she's a daughter of God, just as much as I.

To be counted as the friend of God, like Abraham, and offer up my 'Isaac' of insecurity, selfishness and comfort for the sake of doing - not just thinking or remembering. 

For what is faith? Is it believing there is a God in heaven? Or could it be the believing and trusting that God sees, hears and cares?

Maybe this is earth's test of faith, that through every emotion, circumstance and action, choosing to believe that the only begotten of the Father humbled Himself and died my death. That He has felt and lived through every single pain and joy as I have.

This is faith: knowing that despite man's shortcomings, God does not lie in His jealous, burning and relentless love for humanity.

I must be like Him! I must reciprocate my feelings of gratitude for Him. So I'll do as He did. I can't live my faith only in my mind, void of actions. I must give the naked clothing. I must take her into my home, give her my bed to sleep in and food to eat. I must tell her of the love of Christ. I must! I want to!

This is faith.

For it is wrong to look into the perfect law of liberty then simply forget that which it has instructed.

God needs more friends like Abraham. I want to be like Abraham.