So get rid of all uncleanness and all that remains of wickedness, and with a humble spirit receive the word [of God] which is implanted [actually rooted in your heart], which is able to save your souls. But prove yourselves doers of the word [actively and continually obeying God’s precepts], and not merely listeners [who hear the word but fail to internalize its meaning], deluding yourselves [by unsound reasoning contrary to the truth]. For if anyone only listens to the word without obeying it, he is like a man who looks very carefully at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he immediately forgets what he looked like. But he who looks carefully into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and faithfully abides by it, not having become a [careless] listener who forgets but an active doer [who obeys], he will be blessed and favored by God in what he does [in his life of obedience]. (James 1:21-25 AMP)
REFLECTION
It’s relatively easy to read, listen to and talk about God’s Word, but as we are urged in verse 22, we also need to actually do His Word, in faith. Of course, as created beings (with all our complex issues etc) it’s not possible for us to do that without our Creator’s help, but we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (see Philippians 4:13).
So let’s do all we can to stay close to our living, loving Lord in earnest prayer, pondering His living and active Word and prayerfully put it into practice every day, trusting the Holy Spirit of God to do what only He can do – in and through us – as we do what we can, in faith.
For example: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice always and delight in your faith; be unceasing and persistent in prayer; in every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.
May we stay ever mindful that “…the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart. And not a creature exists that is concealed from His sight, but all things are open and exposed, and revealed to the eyes of Him with whom we have to give account. (Hebrews 4:12-13 AMP)
PRAYER POEM
LORD, nothing compares to You and Your infallible Word is forever true. Strengthen me to perpetually pursue You and persistently pray and ponder, with wonder, Your wonderful Word and ways for the rest of my days. Help me do what You say, every day, come what may.
