It’s easy to hear the Bible and feel encouraged… and then walk away unchanged. We can listen to sermons, read devotionals, highlight verses, and still stay stuck in the same patterns. James doesn’t let us hide behind religious activity. He says if we only hear the Word, we can actually deceive ourselves.

That’s a strong warning. Because self-deception feels like peace. It feels like “I’m fine.” It feels like “I went to church,” or “I read my vers,e” or “I know what the Bible says.” But God’s Word was never meant to be admired only. It was meant to be obeyed. Hearing is good, but hearing without doing is like leaves without fruit. It looks alive, but nothing is growing.

So here’s the question: what is one thing God has already told you to do? Forgive someone? Make something right? Stop feeding a sin? Start praying again? Serve in the body of Christ? The next step is rarely complicated. It’s usually simple… and hard. But it’s where life and blessing are found. Don’t just hear today. Do.

Life Lesson: Hearing the Word is not the finish line. Obedience is where faith becomes real.

Dear Father,
Thank You for Your Word and for how clearly it speaks to my life. Forgive me for the times I have heard truth but refused to obey it. Please give me a willing heart and the courage to take the next step You’ve already shown me.
In Jesus’ name, amen.

Living to tell what He died to say,
Pastor David McGee

Senior Pastor
The Bridge
aboutthebridge.com
twitter.com/ccot