Faithful Action

Ludwig Wittgenstein was perhaps the 20th century’s most important philosopher. His impact was so extensive that he not only revolutionized philosophy but also influenced business, mathematics, and other disciplines.

Why was he so influential? One reason was that he realized that many problems were created by the misuse of language. He encouraged people to be careful about the words they spoke. And he described how the best way to know the reality about people wasn’t just to ask them but to observe them.

The Bible also encourages us to realize that our words can cause trouble. And it reminds us of the importance of backing our words with action. Jesus told a story about a man with two sons. Many people are like the second son, who made promises but did not follow through. Like this son, some say they believe but do not put their faith into action.

It was the first son who “did what his father wanted.” He was blessed because he obeyed and did not just make promises. It is not enough just to know God’s Word. In fact, “demons also believe, and shudder” (James 2:19). We must believe and act!

We need to be “doers of the Word,” not deceiving ourselves by just listening (James 1:22). Jesus emphasized this point when He said, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21).

Today, put your faith into action.