“Talk is cheap.” There is a reason this saying has stuck around. People can claim to be something a lot more easily than they can live it out. It’s one thing to claim to be an excellent student, a devoted friend or an obedient son or daughter. But it’s another thing to live any of these out from day to day. In the context of James 2, the author is making the point that it’s easier to claim to be a Christian than to be one. It is easier to say we have faith than to live by faith.

Many people believe they are saved, yet they do not live devoted to Jesus. The truth is that there is no such thing as saving faith that isn’t displayed through a life of good works. Yes, the verbal expression of faith – confessing Jesus – is necessary. However, if our faith only results in quoting Scripture, but never reaching the point of caring tangibly for those in need, we are self-deceived (James 1:26). Let’s not allow our talk to be cheap, but instead live in a way that costs us for the sake of others – this is what Jesus did.

What are some things in your life that you need to change in order to live out what you believe?