What It's Worth!- James 2: 14-16

April 28th, 2025

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Daily Devotional Entry#118

What It's Worth- "If people say they have faith, but do nothing, their faith is worth nothing. Can faith like that save them? A brother or sister in Christ might need clothes or food. If you say to that person, "God be with you! I hope you stay warm and get plenty to eat," but you do not give what that person needs, your words are worth nothing."- James 2: 14-16 (NCV)

Q & A?

Take a moment to look around you, not just with your eyes, but with your spirit. What unspoken needs do you sense in the world today, in the spaces you inhabit, in the interactions you witness? And perhaps more importantly, what are those needs that truly tug at the deepest corners of your heart? What stirs within you a profound desire to respond, and in what ways, however big or small, can you extend a hand, a word, or an act of love?

My answer:

These needs I see around me – understanding each other, showing compassion in difficult choices, nurturing our spirits, loving ourselves, and building trust – all tie into the idea that just believing good things isn't enough.

Seeing these needs and feeling a tug in my heart to respond isn't just about having an opinion or a belief. It's about recognizing where people are hurting or struggling in ways that affect their whole being – their minds, bodies, and spirits. If my faith and beliefs are real, then they should lead me to care about these needs and want to take action, even if that action is simply offering understanding, sharing my perspective, or encouraging self-love and trust. Just saying I believe these things are important isn't the same as actually caring and responding in a way that might help. It's about letting what I believe move me to show love and concern for others in practical ways.

Heavenly Father, as we reflect on the needs we see around us and the ways we are called to respond, we come before You with open hearts.

Thank you for opening our eyes to the struggles and yearnings of those around us. Help us to not just see these needs, but to feel them in our hearts and be moved to action, however small.

Grant us wisdom and compassion as we engage with complex issues, always striving to offer understanding, kindness, and truth. May our beliefs inspire us to reach out and support others in ways that nurture their minds, bodies, and spirits.

Strengthen our commitment to self-love, to building relationships on trust and loyalty, and to seeking a deeper connection with You. May our lives be a testament to a faith that is not just spoken but lived out in love and service.

In Your loving embrace, we offer this prayer, trusting that You will guide our steps and use our willingness to respond to bring light and hope to those in need. Amen.

@JK