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At first glance, this passage can seem to contradict other messages in the Bible. If Paul said we’re justified by grace alone through faith (Ephesians 2:8), how do we interpret what James wrote here that seems the exact opposite?

We find throughout the Bible examples of faith and action going hand in hand. For example, Isaiah, Jesus, James, and others remind us that true faith loves people experiencing poverty—and that love is shown through action. We don’t wish people experiencing poverty well and go back into our comfortable homes. We help provide, we serve, we feed, we clothe. Not with a righteous attitude, but a humble heart that knows that our God has done the same for us. True faith means our hearts have been changed, and a changed heart is demonstrated through action. Faith with no action is no genuine faith at all. As James wrote, our faith is dead without deeds, like a body without a spirit.

Our faith must actually move our hands, feet, minds, and bodies to demonstrate the character and kingdom of God. We serve people experiencing poverty; we fight oppression; we feed the hungry; we invite people into our homes; we encourage one another with words, and we love our neighbors. We pick up our crosses and follow Jesus.

Life is busy, and it can be easy to focus inward on our own needs and desires. But we’re called to give our attention to serving others. Where in your life can you reflect more of God’s character through your actions?