Feb 06 2012
Do What It Says!
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
I try to read my Bible, every day. I try to learn from it. I try to make it a part of my life.
But as God said, don’t just merely a reader – go and do it! I don’t want to sit here, thinking I’m so high and mighty after reading the entire Bible, cover to cover, in multiple languages. God is not impressed by my knowledge alone. God is more impressed with what I’ll do with His laws.
Will I obey and help the poor? Will I listen and don’t be quick to anger or judge? Will I be transformed by changing all of bad habits into good ones, according to His word? If I want to be a better person, I have to do what God’s words say!
In Mark 8:34-38, God commands me to “take up my cross”. This was what Jesus did for me when He died on the cross. He served people. He healed people. He gave people hope. He worked long and difficult to heal this world – and ultimately sacrificed Himself so we can be saved.
My sin to confess is that I don’t do enough to help others. I fear the consequences of giving too much money away. I fear what others think of me. I fear criticism.
But I hold on to God’s promise that I will be vindicated if I do the right thing. When I’m not selfish, I will be justified. When I help others, I will be rewarded.
The choices I made help shape my attitude. To be like Christ, I can’t be like this world. I don’t need to care about what others think. I must only care what Jesus think of me.
Thus, I will obey God’s command to go out there and be a light to this world. I need to be a good ambassador for Christ.
The ultimate example is Mother Theresa for doing good deeds. She sacrificed a lot, just to help others. Not many can match her dedication, but I must try!
I must also watch out for my pride. I can’t be too proud of my good deeds. I must focus the glory to God, for He gives me the strength to be un-selfish.
Truth to remember:
What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?
Mark 8:36
I am so thankful that God sent Jesus to be the greatest example and teacher, I can learn from. He’s the blueprint for humanity. He gives me the ability to go forth and be helpful!
I will do what He says!
