How much is enough? Unfortunately, when talking about serving God or providing for people in need, there is never enough. Jesus said in John 12:8, “You will always have the poor among you.” Opportunities to help are ever-present. There is always need in the world.
The Book of James is credited to James, the brother of Jesus, and is most known for its theme of mission and outreach, of helping the poor. What, according to James, does faith need? What concrete example is given in verses 15 and 16? What is the conclusion?
This passage came to my mind while in Port-au-Prince, Haiti as we surveyed the repair work we had done at an orphanage. What we had done was a good thing. The children and the orphanage director all appreciated the repairs, fixes that would make life better where they were. But they needed so much more.
However, the continuing needs of the poor should not be a discouragement from doing what we can. I am glad for the work we were able to accomplish, but seeing the need up close and personal as I did simply spurred me on to want to do even more.
I see that as a part of gentleness – praotes. If praotes means that we must submit to the will of God, that we should be led or taught by God, and that we should extend consideration to others then we will indeed have faith which includes deeds. Submitting to will of God and extending consideration will inspire you to do more work and meet the needs of the poor.
Isn’t that the will of God? Doesn’t God will it that we should serve one another, that we should care for one another, that we should meet the needs of others? If we will exhibit the fruit of the Spirit then we will indeed have faith that includes action – real and specific work that meets specific and essential needs.
“Gentleness” can easily be seen as a weak and, perhaps, disposable attribute. But in fact, submitting to the will of God requires strength and provides strength. Through the will of God you will have a faith that has deeds.
DAILY CHALLENGE: What specific need can you meet this week?
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