“That person is so heavenly minded that they’re of no earthly use.”

Have you ever heard that expression? It’s a put down. Why? Because the opposite should be true for us as followers of Jesus. Seeking to learn and do God’s will should translate into usefulness and helpfulness in the here and now.

James was an influential leader in the early church. He was also the half-brother of Jesus. He wrote: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (James 1:22).

In other words, when we listen to (or read) God’s word we should act on it. If we don’t, we’re deceiving ourselves!

James is saying that invisible beliefs make a visible difference. If we claim to believe certain things in our heads and hearts but don’t talk or act any differently as a result, then we don’t truly believe them in the first place.

None of us are perfect. I’m the first one to admit it. But as we rely on God, and as we learn more about him, we seek to speak and act in truth and love.

Invisible beliefs make a visible difference.

By Matthew Ruttan 

–Today’s devotional is based on my latest sermon: “Do the word.” You can watch it on YouTube here.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.