Read James 3:1–2

Words. Words. Words. We have become “too wordy” (as my mother used to put it), much too verbal in our faith, which explains our excessive interest in meetings. Whatever happened to solitude...to silence? And when did we get the idea that more information leads to deeper consecration? On the contrary, many words tend to dilute a godly walk.

Jesus’ emphasis remained painfully clear: if you believe it, do it. His arch enemies, the Pharisees, were great on loud, dogmatic commands, lengthy requirements, and drawn-out demands. Oh, how they could preach! But when it came to doing it, they struck out.

James, whose brief but pointed comments make us uncomfortable, puts it well:

Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly. Indeed, we all make many mistakes [by talking!]. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. (James 3:1–2)

Not much need for grand speeches or lengthy meetings where everyone takes turns rearranging their prejudices! Do it. You know the truth, so act on it. Don’t dabble in all the what ifs.

Nobody has required you to memorize all the red-letter sections of the Gospel accounts. Just do it.

I’m convinced that until we’re willing to start there, it’s dumb to attend more activities. When we pass into glory, we won’t be met at the portals of heaven by some angel with a clipboard who asks, “And how many meetings did you attend this past year? How much did you say?” But since we’re still on earth, there is a question we need to answer.

Jesus asks, “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord’ and do not the things which I say?” (see Luke 6:46). Take that personally. I urge you to take the time you need to really think through how you’d answer that question. When you land on the truth, don’t talk about it....

Do it!

Devotional content taken from Good Morning, Lord...Can We Talk? by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2018. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, a Division of Tyndale House Ministries. All rights reserved.

The full devotional can be purchased at https://www.tyndale.com/p/good-morning-lord-can-we-talk/9781414380681.