But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
James 1:22 (HCSB)
I remember leading a Bible study group for young people. Among them was a 21-year-old girl who was always asking questions about the deeds and exploits that men of God were doing. She loved the way I described the relationship between God and the people He used to manifest His glory. She memorized all these explanations in detail so that she could tell them to her friends. However, she showed no signs of inner transformation in her personal life.
Although this young girl loved the Bible and its content, its application was not important to her. Her mistake was believing that knowing what the Bible says and being able to talk about it was enough to be a true Christian. It is not enough to receive and memorize God’s word to please Him; we must also apply it to our lives. Applying it simply means obeying what it says in the way God desires.
Some Christians, refusing to conform to the teachings of the Bible, prefer to find an explanation that justifies their actions. This is what Paul means by false reasoning. You listen to the Word, you like what it tells you but you do not want to obey its precepts. When God asks us to obey, there are always rewards waiting for us in return because He knows that it will not always be easy. Do not give desired explanations to the Word of God, but put it into practice as it is written, this is how you will develop the fruit of the Spirit.
May the grace and peace of God be with you all.
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