Living the Word, Not Just Hearing It
01/30/2026
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
— James 1:22 (NIV)
It’s possible to be around the Word of God often and still miss its transforming power. James speaks directly to this tension. He reminds us that hearing God’s Word, while essential, is only the beginning. The danger is subtle but real: we can become comfortable listeners who confuse familiarity with faithfulness.
Think about how often we consume information without intention to act. We read articles, watch videos, listen to podcasts, and yet nothing changes. James says the same can happen spiritually. We can sit in church, read Scripture, nod in agreement, even feel encouraged……and still walk away unchanged. You see, when the Word stops at our ears and never reaches our hands or feet, we deceive ourselves into thinking we’re growing when we’re really just accumulating knowledge. In fact, with full transparency, that was my first 12 years of being saved.
God’s Word was never meant to be admired from a distance. It’s meant to be lived out in the ordinary places of life, how we speak to our spouse, how we respond to conflict, how we treat the person who can’t give us anything in return. Obedience isn’t about perfection; it’s about alignment. Each small step of obedience opens space for God to shape our character and deepen our trust.
The beauty of this verse is that it’s not heavy with guilt, it’s full of invitation. God isn’t asking us to do everything at once. He’s simply asking us to take the next step. When we act on what we already know, the Word comes alive within us.
So today, don’t just ask, “What did I hear?” Ask, “What will I do?”
Action Steps:
Take a moment to reflect on one Scripture or truth God has been reminding you of lately.
Choose one simple, practical action that puts that truth into motion.
Pay attention to how obedience changes your perspective, not just your circumstances.
Today’s Challenge:
Identify one truth from God’s Word and live it out intentionally before the day ends….even if it feels small.
Father, thank You for Your Word that guides, corrects, and gives life. Forgive us for the times we’ve heard Your truth without responding in obedience. Give us hearts that are humble and willing, and courage to live out what You’ve spoken. May our faith be visible in how we love, serve, and obey You today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Pastor Jeff
#LoveGod #LovePeople
#FindFreedom #FindYourDesign
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
— James 1:22 (NIV)
It’s possible to be around the Word of God often and still miss its transforming power. James speaks directly to this tension. He reminds us that hearing God’s Word, while essential, is only the beginning. The danger is subtle but real: we can become comfortable listeners who confuse familiarity with faithfulness.
Think about how often we consume information without intention to act. We read articles, watch videos, listen to podcasts, and yet nothing changes. James says the same can happen spiritually. We can sit in church, read Scripture, nod in agreement, even feel encouraged……and still walk away unchanged. You see, when the Word stops at our ears and never reaches our hands or feet, we deceive ourselves into thinking we’re growing when we’re really just accumulating knowledge. In fact, with full transparency, that was my first 12 years of being saved.
God’s Word was never meant to be admired from a distance. It’s meant to be lived out in the ordinary places of life, how we speak to our spouse, how we respond to conflict, how we treat the person who can’t give us anything in return. Obedience isn’t about perfection; it’s about alignment. Each small step of obedience opens space for God to shape our character and deepen our trust.
The beauty of this verse is that it’s not heavy with guilt, it’s full of invitation. God isn’t asking us to do everything at once. He’s simply asking us to take the next step. When we act on what we already know, the Word comes alive within us.
So today, don’t just ask, “What did I hear?” Ask, “What will I do?”
Action Steps:
Take a moment to reflect on one Scripture or truth God has been reminding you of lately.
Choose one simple, practical action that puts that truth into motion.
Pay attention to how obedience changes your perspective, not just your circumstances.
Today’s Challenge:
Identify one truth from God’s Word and live it out intentionally before the day ends….even if it feels small.
Father, thank You for Your Word that guides, corrects, and gives life. Forgive us for the times we’ve heard Your truth without responding in obedience. Give us hearts that are humble and willing, and courage to live out what You’ve spoken. May our faith be visible in how we love, serve, and obey You today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Pastor Jeff
#LoveGod #LovePeople
#FindFreedom #FindYourDesign
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2026
January
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