James. A 21-day reading plan by Doxa Deo.Sample

 James 2:20-26 Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness"—and he was called a friend of God. You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.

James emphasises a faith that works. Although he doesn’t negate the necessity of faith, he does insist that genuine faith should produce fruit of good works and that mature faith means living what believers say they believe. 

There is a distinct difference between willpower and willingness. These good works are motivated by willingness, not a sense of obligation.  Inspired and passionate, with a love that is fuelled by faith. Faith actually works!

Reflection:

Can you be called a friend of God?

Is your faith WORKING?