Get off the sidelines

We're encouraged to: 'Be doers of the word, and not hearers only' (James 1:22 NKJV). James is telling us to hear God's word, and then to go out and do what we've heard. If we left our phone plugged in all the time, but didn't use it, well, what would be the point? Similarly, if we spend our time only plugged into our Bibles or only absorbing good stuff from sermons or the lives of Jesus-like friends, it'll charge us up and do us some good, but won't be beneficial to anyone else.

We can hear about all the amazing missionary trips our friends are on and support from a distance. But life-growth and Christian discipleship develop effectively when we take in and learn from these people and then do whatever God may ask from us as a result. We will never grow from others' boldness. We'll only feel the fullness of God when we step out of our comfort zone and do what we're learning.

A bit of time on the sidelines is helpful, especially if we're the type who learns by watching. But letting that become our life is unhealthy, and boring. Honestly, the sideline is one of the easiest places to get stuck, especially because it can very quickly lead to laziness.



So what now? When you spend time with God today, ask him to show you where you're sitting on the sidelines. Then ask him how you can make a difference, out there.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.' James 1:22 NKJV
— SOULFOOD —

Eze 16:53-19:14, Matt 16:13-28, Ps 48, Pro 14:33-35