Living Out Our Faith: A Call to Action

Have you ever been hurt by a Christian? It’s a sentiment that resonates with many of us. So often, I hear stories from those who have faced hurt, rejection, or disappointment—sometimes from friends within the faith or even the church itself. I can relate; I’ve experienced the sting of betrayal and disappointment too. However, this hurt is not what God intended for His children.

The Expectation of Higher Standards

The world has an expectation that Christians live to a higher standard, and there’s justification for this expectation. In James 2:18-23, we are reminded that “faith without works is dead.” Our beliefs should manifest in tangible expressions of love and obedience. The reality is that people are watching us; they are examining whether we live out the faith we profess. Our actions become the litmus test, revealing our relationship with God. This passage emphasizes that true faith must be supported by visible, practical actions.
As we profess Jesus as our Lord and Savior, it’s essential to demonstrate that through our deeds—making our faith observable and alive. Just as Matthew 7:16-21 eloquently puts it, “by their fruit you will recognize them.” Our faith isn’t just a mental acknowledgment; it must encapsulate our entire lives.

The Dangerous Deception of Inactive Faith

James warns us that faith without works is nothing but useless. He elucidates this point by stating that we can profess to have saving faith and still be completely deceived. James 2:19 drives this home: even the demons believe in God—and they are not saved. Knowing of Him is one thing, but surrendering our lives to Him is another entirely.
True faith transcends mere belief—it must cultivate a life of action. As Matthew 7:17-18 tells us, true faith produces good fruit. This is the expectancy from a vibrant, living faith. Our actions reflect the true nature of Jesus we embody.

Reflecting Jesus to the World

As we navigate our daily lives, we must be mindful of the message we portray to those around us. There’s an old saying: “You may be the only Jesus some people see.” When others look at us, what image of Jesus do they see? Are we a diluted version that conforms to societal norms, or do we radiate the powerful, miracle-working, resurrection-filled Jesus that we read about in Scripture?
If we sincerely desire our friends, families, and communities to encounter the Jesus of the Bible, then we must embody our faith actively and authentically. It’s imperative that they see our faith in action—not just the words we speak but the lives we live.

Conclusion

Hurt can sometimes blur our perception of faith, but it’s vital to remember that we are called to be reflections of Christ. Let us strive not only to believe but to live out that belief in every action and interaction. By doing so, we can create a profound impact and perhaps, lead others to discover the real Jesus—a Jesus full of grace, mercy, and transformative power.

Pastor Tricia's Ramblings