Knowing and Doing - There Is a Difference

"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do." - James 1:22-25

Do you know someone who went to college, graduated with a degree in some particular discipline and then did something else, totally unrelated? They never applied the discipline they went to school for and paid for with the intent of using the skill to earn a living. That is a similar issue to what James is addressing with respect to reading and or listening to the Word of God. God gave us the Word for a reason. His intent was that we use it to live this new life of ours.

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, SO that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." - 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Did you catch that word "SO"? The expectation of our hearing or reading the Word of God is SO we would apply the Word of God in our lives - all the time - in all circumstances. It is all too easy to be like the "man in the mirror". The purpose of God giving us the Word is to teach us, rebuke us, correct us and train us SO we are able to fulfill our purpose while we walk this earth - to be a faithful, God honoring witnesses to a world that is running full steam toward the gates of hell.  

"Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, SO that you may be careful to do everything written in it. THEN you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:8-9

There is that word "SO" again. Be careful you don't treat the Word like it is a Facebook post from God. Just click LIKE and keep scrolling. SO!!!

Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory.

By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone