Do What It Says

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says – James 1:22. The passion translation puts it this way “Do not just listen to the word of truth and not respond to it, for that is the essence of self-deception” .

The Word of God is a living and active manual that holds every single solution that we need. In it we can find ALL that we need to live an abundant life (2 Timothy 3:16).

We know that the Word has answers to every need, situation etc. But what good would all this be to us, if we don’t actually use them? What good would it be to know the Word of God in and out and yet fail to believe what it actually says? What benefit is it for us to know the power that is in the Word of God and yet we live in anxiety, fear and lack?!

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 ( James 1:23-25). Listening and knowing the Word alone can not get us far, we must carefully and intentionally do everything it says. This is the fuel that drives all the other sources in our lives (such as our career, health, building good relationships etc). When we do what it says the Bible tells us in James 1:25 that we will be blessed in all that we do.

Jesus did not die for us so that we can take the new positions of the Pharisees and the Sadducees knowing the word but yet rejecting all that is says. No, He didnt! His death means that we get to really live out everything His Word says.

It is in our listening, believing and applying the active Word of God that true results will be produced in us and for us. When we apply this principle then the blessings and promises in the Bible will begin to work effectively for us.

Listening, believing and applying the Word will also equip us for every battle. It will boost the confidence we have in Christ and strengthen our faith.

The Word of God is for us to live a great life and it was written intentionally for us so we too need to live it intentionally. Everything in it holds life, application, wisdom and direction. We must choose to do everything it says so we can have everything it promises.

To know God and what He is about, check His Word, obey it and live it with all your heart. This is how we can show Him how much we love Him and how much we follow His commandment (Matthew 22:36-38).