Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
-- 1 John 2:6
It is easy to claim the name of Jesus. (Even easier to talk of God or gods.) The substance of our faith however, is not found in our words. The true measure of faith is revealed in how we live.
According to James, faith does...
I will show you my faith by my works... faith apart from works is dead.
-- James 2:18, 26
Social media is filled with inspirational spiritual quotes and reminders. And I am often needing of the shots in the arm. But I must remember faith - true, real faith - is not found in my words, it is my belief in action. Very frankly, no one is impressed by my religion. (And if I am working to impress, I've missed the boat entirely.)
How did Jesus walk (live)?
He walked in compassion... Lepers weren't to be touched. Jesus hugged and healed. Sinners were to be avoided. Jesus ate and drank with them.
He walked in grace... The humble were never turned away (and condemnation was saved only for those who self-righteously misrepresented God - though the offer of grace was extended even to these).
He walked in power... Thousands fed, water walked, disease healed, dead raised, enough said.
He walked in truth... Without truth compassion and grace are sentiment, and power turns vindictive. Truth's core is not in right beliefs - it is right being (or in the context, right abiding).
He walked in love... And the greatest of these is love (1 Corinthians 13:13).
God, help me to abide with Jesus that my faith may be real.
For now...
D
