Don't Be a Bystander

As believers, we are called to be more than just listeners of God's Word. James 1:22 says, "But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers."  This verse urges us to take action and live out our faith in our daily lives.

 

The Bible is filled with examples and instructions on how to be active in our faith. In Matthew 5:16, Jesus tells us, "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." Our actions should reflect God's love and draw others to Him.

 

In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus illustrates the importance of taking action to help those in need. The Samaritan didn't just pass by the wounded man; he stopped, helped, and cared for him. This is a powerful reminder that our faith must be evident through our actions and compassion towards others.

 

Another key scripture is Ephesians 2:10, which says, "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them." God has designed each of us for a purpose, and He has prepared good works for us to do. We must be willing to step out in faith and fulfill the tasks He has set before us. Find God’s purpose for you and pursue it.

 

1 John 3:18 encourages us to "not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth." Our love for others should be demonstrated through our actions, not just our words. This aligns with Jesus' command to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:39).

 

As believers, we are not called to a passive faith where we simply listen to sermons and read the Bible without allowing its truth to transform our lives. Instead, we are called to let God's Word penetrate deep into our hearts and minds, challenging us to align our actions with its teachings. Do not forget the first part of Hebrews 4:12 says, "For the word of God is living and active"

 

Being active in our faith also means being vigilant and prepared for spiritual battles. 1 Peter 5:8 warns us, "Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." We must be spiritually alert and proactive in guarding our hearts and minds.

 

Finally, Galatians 6:9 says, “Let’s not become discouraged in doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not become weary.”  This should encourages us not to grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not give up. Perseverance in our faith and actions is crucial. Even when it seems challenging, we must continue to trust in God's plan and His timing.

 

To sum up James 1:22, being a follower of Christ means being active and engaged. It's not enough to simply hear God's Word; we must live it out. By letting our light shine, helping those in need, fulfilling our God-given purpose, showing love through our actions, staying spiritually vigilant, and persevering in doing good, we can truly reflect the heart of Jesus. Let's move from being passive bystanders to active participants in God's work. "Let us do everything in our power to spread the Gospel of Christ, sharing His message of love, grace, and salvation with all who will listen."

 

Fifty years ago, I committed my life to serving the Lord. I hold an associate degree in Christian Education and a bachelor’s degree in Christian Counseling. I live by 1 Corinthians 9:16, and Ephesians 3:7-8. In my retirement, I focus on studying and sharing the teachings of God’s Word with others. Besides writing this Blog, I maintain 3 Facebook pages dedicated to spreading the Word of God. Email Dean: hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com