TUESDAY July 7, 2026
True Christianity
If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.
James 1:26
James spoke so practically to Christians. He wanted to help them understand that, if they failed to have self-control and hold their tongues, their religion was vain––useless. Again, James gave a similar analogy of the person who looked in the mirror and walked away without any real change; however, this time he used the example of a religious person who had an outward show of Christianity, but in his behavior, he was no different. He was not a genuine Christian inwardly, and this became obvious in his ungodly behavior.
James went on to say what a genuine reflection of a Christian should really be like. Their purity of heart before God will be seen in their actions toward those in need. A true Christian will have a genuine concern for orphans and widows. If you have a grandmother, mother or aunt who is a widow, it is your responsibility to help take care of them. Some widows may be elderly and may not be able to do much because of ill health, or they suffer with arthritis. Their lives have become very difficult, and they need help.
Honestly, I know that so many widows are neglected. Those who are elderly are often placed in convalescent homes, forgotten by their families, and often left to die––sad. Yet I believe with all my heart that if Christians would go out and minister to widows by making themselves available to cut their grass and clean their houses, they could stay in their homes and be more independent.
What are you willing to do to help an orphan or widow? If you would make time to visit them and help them in any way, they would be so blessed by God.
It is the duty of every Christian to be Christ to his neighbor.
~Martin Luther~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
