Faith Without Works Is Dead
But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded! 2 Chronicles 15:7
It takes courage to persevere when you want to stop. A verse like this makes me think of Olympic athletes. They work day in and day out training for the event in which they will compete. They change their diets and sacrifice “normal” lives to pursue a chance to stand on a podium representing their country. However, when we are in Christ, we’re not trying to do this independently. He is there to strengthen us with His grace. 2 Timothy 2:1, 5 says, “You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he completes according to the rules.”
Our work is rewarded when it’s mixed with faith. Hebrews 11:6 says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” It also says in James 2:26, “faith without works is dead.” So we are to have faith in God and do what He tells us to do.
God often gives us direction through the Holy Spirit, but we dismiss it wanting an “easier option.” I suffered from back pain for many years. My back would easily go out, which was very painful. I had my back prayed over many times, which gave brief relief, but do you know where my complete healing came from? Working out. I had to work at strengthening my body. I wish I could say that I could exercise once and it would be better, but I have to work out every day! Now I look forward to my daily workouts because I am pain-free and totally healed from back problems. It was the faith in God AND doing the work that brought total healing.
God will do the same thing for you. Put your faith in Him and do whatever He tells you to do and you will be greatly rewarded!
Dear Lord, thank you for your wisdom and direction in my life. I will mix my faith with what you tell me to do and be rewarded with victory in my life. Amen.
