More Than Just Belief

Key Bible Verses: And we can be sure that we know him if we obey his commandments. If someone claims, "I know God," but doesn't obey God's commandments, that person is a liar and is not living in the truth. (1 John 2:3-4) Dig Deeper: James 1:21-25, 2:14-26


Maybe you're thinking, I believe in God. Isn't that enough? I mean, a lot of people don't believe in God, but I do. Isn't that what he wants from me? Those are fair questions. But believing in God isn't all he wants from us. The Book of James says even the demons believe in God, yet they tremble because they know that they're relationally separated from him (James 2:19). Obviously, there is more to the whole Christian thing than just believing in God.

Growing up, my family was what I'd call "cultural Christians." We'd go to church on Christmas and Easter. We'd help a neighbor in need. We'd donate canned goods to food drives. We'd pray at Thanksgiving meals. But that was basically the extent of it. Even though I believed in God, all I knew was about him—and very little of that. I didn't know him. And because I didn't know him the way best friends or spouses know each others, I lived according to my own rules.

[ Today's Key Bible Verses say rather pointedly that] my very actions revealed my lack of intimate knowledge of God. [Do those verses] seem harsh? I prefer to think of it as straightforward and honest. Truthfully spoken by someone who truly cares and wants the best for us.

My Response: I will read today's Dig Deeper, reflecting on the proper place of obedience and good works in the life of a Christian.

Thought to Apply: The Scripture plainly teaches that practice is the best evidence of the sincerity of Christians. Our reason teaches us the same thing.—Jonathan Edwards (preacher, theologian)
 
[By Craig Groeschel ]
 Be Blessed!
 
Dawn