Understanding the Connection Between What We Believe and What We Do
Faith and works—two important ideas that sometimes seem at odds. But when we really think about them, we see how beautifully intertwined they are. In simple terms, let’s explore these concepts and how they shape our everyday lives.
What Is Faith?
Faith is like trust—it’s believing in something, even when you can’t see it. When people talk about faith in God, they mean trusting His love. They mean trusting His promises and His guidance, even if life is confusing. Imagine a friend catching you during a trust fall. You can’t see them getting ready to catch you, but you believe they’ll be there.
The Bible explains faith in Hebrews 11:1. It states: “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” It’s about believing that good things are ahead, even if we can’t see them yet.
Faith isn’t just about saying, “I believe.” It’s about how we live, showing trust through our choices and actions. Think of it as trusting a recipe—not just reading it but actually cooking the dish to experience its goodness.
What Are Works?
Works are our actions—what we do because of our faith. They’re the good deeds, kindness, and help we offer to others. Faith is the seed inside us. Works are the flowers and fruits that grow. They show the world what’s been planted.
Imagine someone saying they care about you but never showing it. Their words do not mean much without actions to back them up. Works are the proof that our faith is real and living.
The Message of James 2:14
James 2:14 in the Bible asks, “What good is it if someone says they have faith but no works? Can that faith save them?” This reminds us that faith isn’t finished until it shows up in our actions.
Picture a tree that looks sturdy but doesn’t bear fruit. It’s not fulfilling its purpose. Similarly, faith without works isn’t doing what it’s meant to do. True faith shows itself through what we do. If you believe in a strong chair, you’re willing to sit on it.
Faith in Action: Caring for the Poor
The Bible makes clear how faith leads to action. James 2:6 warns against dishonoring the poor, pushing us to show compassion. If we believe in God’s love but ignore people in need, our faith is not be doing much.
Actions like feeding the hungry, welcoming strangers, or helping someone in hardship don’t just show kindness. They reflect God’s love through us.
Why Motivation Matters (1 Corinthians 4:5)
While works are important, 1 Corinthians 4:5 reminds us that the *why* behind our actions also matters. God knows our hearts and sees things others can’t. Are we helping just to look good, or because we genuinely care? True works come from a heart touched by faith.
The Balance Between Faith and Works
Faith and works aren’t opposites—they’re partners. Faith connects us to God, and works let that connection shine outward. Together, they show what belief looks like in action.
Take Abraham’s story in the Bible. He trusted God’s promises, and that trust was called righteous. But it didn’t stop there. He acted on his faith. For instance, he was ready to offer his son Isaac in obedience (James 2:21-22). His actions proved the strength of his faith.
Faith and Works: A Simple Illustration
Think of faith as the power that fuels a lamp and works as the light that shines from it. Without power, the lamp can’t shine. Without light, the lamp doesn’t fulfill its purpose. Together, they brighten the world.
Living Out Faith and Works
How can we bring faith and works together in daily life? It’s simpler than we might think. Here are some examples:
· Be kind: A smile, a compliment, or lending a helping hand can brighten someone’s day.
· Help those in need: Volunteer, donate, or be there for someone going through a tough time.
· Practice integrity: Let your actions reflect your values, like honesty and fairness.
· Forgive others: Show grace, even when it’s hard. Forgiveness is a powerful act of faith.
Conclusion
Faith and works go hand in hand. Faith gives us a connection to God, while works show that connection to the world. Together, they create a life that reflects love, compassion, and purpose.
As 1 Corinthians 4:5 reminds us, God will reveal the truth of our hearts and actions in time. Let’s aim to live a life where faith and works collaborate closely. We should share kindness, help others, and spread God’s love in everything we do.
Blessings,
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 