TUESDAY July 14, 2026
Faith and True Works
But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!
James 2:18-19
Understand, when you are truly saved by faith, you will show the evidence of true works in your life. As Christians we become the light of the world (Matthew 5:14). We cannot remain hidden and inactive. How do we shine for Jesus? We are to do good works! God is always glorified through what we do for Him: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). How can anyone do true works if they have no real faith?
James gave a sobering thought: You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! There are so many people who claim to be believers, but there is no evidence of their faith in their lives. Belief in God is not enough; there has to be a change of life and desire to serve the Lord.
Some people believe that their good works is what will get them a place in heaven––not so. Where is their genuine faith in the Son of God? When we think we can get into heaven on our own merit, that my friends is called self-righteousness. We cannot trust in our own righteousness because Isaiah 64:6 tells us: ...all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags.... Paul and James both agree on the same doctrine of justification by faith:
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God (Romans 5:1-2).
James and Paul complement each other in their writing, which helps us not to be confused when it comes to faith, works, and the grace of God.
The law tells me how crooked I am. Grace comes along and straightens me out.
~D. L. Moody~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
