Blessed in what he DOES

Written by Ian and Emeline Forbes

But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does James 1:25

Walking in faith and obedience to God is difficult…particularly in our secular world. In the last 20 months, we have seen that difficulty magnified by a pandemic that has touched us all. There is hardly anyone who has not lost a loved one or know someone who has. But, it is in these times that we need be steadfast in our faith.

James in his word to the 12 tribes of Israel lays down the perfect template for true faith in God. He exhorts them to remain resolute in their faith reminding them that the truly faithful are the blessed of the father. They are not just hearers of the word but doers of God’s purpose in the world. They are different and their differences are apparent. The faithful are not swayed by the fads and fashion of the world, but remain rooted in the one true word which proceeds from God. Troubles may come but your faith will sustain – even in the darkest night His light will show the way.

I know exactly how your faith can waver from time to time; through seemingly overwhelming stress, trauma, and tragedy. But I’ve made up my mind that I will seek God and see His hand in everything that occurs in my life- in faith.

He has never turned away or abandoned me, and I know that if I am His faithful servant, my trials today will become my testimonies tomorrow. I will resolve to pray about all my endeavors so that my vision for my life aligns with His will. And I will believe Him 100% for the fulfillment of those efforts which He has anointed over my life.

Reflection: 

How has your faith been tested and how have you persevered during that time?

Meditate on this – Is what you are trusting and believing God for going to glorify Him or is it to fulfill your earthly desires? I believe that if it’s to glorify Him and is in agreement with His assignment for your life, you can trust God to fulfill your vision. If however it is not aligned with God’s anointed plan for your life, it’s a fantasy, and no amount of faith will make it manifest in your life.

Prayer:

Thank You, Heavenly Father, You are a God of no limits. Thank You because wherever we find ourselves, whether in times of joy or triumph, we can count also on You to be there in our times of deep sorrow. So in this time of fasting and prayer, we are reminded that it is because of our faith that we have known the power of God in the good and the bad times and that we can count on Your word for EVERY situation and circumstance. We will hold steadfast to what the word says so that we may walk in  Your divine will for our lives by DOING what is required of us until Your kingdom comes, and until Your will is done. Help us to possess greater faith as believers. Help us to speak life into ALL THINGS, BELIEVE IN YOU THROUGH ALL THINGS, and PRAY IN FAITH KNOWING EVERYTHING DEPENDS ON YOU.