Living The Word in the New Year

As the New Year begins, it is customary for many of us to seek guidance, make resolutions, and find sources of inspiration. For me, this journey began with a profound reflection on the Scriptures, specifically James 1:22-24, through the YouVersion Bible app. These verses form a cornerstone for anyone aspiring to not just read but also live by the Word of God.

James 1:22-24 says, "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was." This passage provides a powerful metaphor and a clear directive for our spiritual lives.

The first and most immediate lesson from this passage is the call to action. It is not sufficient to merely listen to or read the word of God; you must act upon it. The metaphor of the mirror is particularly telling. When you look into a mirror, you see yourself as you are at that moment. However, if you walk away and forget what you saw, the knowledge of your own appearance does not benefit you. Similarly, if you read or hear God's word but do not apply it to your life, you are like someone who forgets their own face.

In your daily life, this means embracing the teachings of the Bible in a practical and consistent manner. It's about translating the values and principles you read in Scripture into tangible actions. Whether it's showing kindness to a stranger, offering forgiveness to someone who has wronged you, or standing up for justice and truth in your community, these are all ways you can be a doer of the Word.

Moreover, this passage warns against self-deception. It's easy to assume that hearing or reading the word of God is enough, that these actions alone make you righteous or spiritually mature. However, the real measure of your faith is how it manifests in your daily life. Are you living in a way that reflects the teachings of Christ? Are you making decisions and treating others in a manner that aligns with biblical principles?

Reflecting on this passage at the beginning of the year is particularly poignant. It serves as a reminder that your spiritual journey is an active one. As you make resolutions and set goals for the year, include a commitment to not only read the Word of God but also to live it out. Strive to remember the image in the mirror – to remember who you are in Christ and how you are called to live.

As you move forward into this year, hold onto the message of James 1:22-24. Let it be a guide that leads you from a mere listener to an active doer of the Word. May you allow the Scripture to not only inform your mind but also transform your life, shaping your actions, decisions, and interactions with others. In doing so, you not only honor God but also grow in your faith and impact the world around you.

Jim

The Chaplain Writer