The Measure of Faith: Our Actions
Are you truly practicing what you preach? This question, posed by the apostle Paul, resonates with us even today.
Throughout history, there has been a recurring problem of individuals failing to align their actions with their words. In his letter to the Romans, Paul warns against desiring and lustful thoughts, worshipping idols, and embracing other religions.
“you, therefore, who teach someone else, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that one is not to steal, do you steal? You who say that one is not to commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who loathe idols, do you rob temples? You who boast in the Law, through your breaking the Law, do you dishonor God? For “the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you,” just as it is written,” (Romans 2:21–24).
Sin, he declares, is always wrong and condemned in the Bible. Yet, he points out that many who claim to follow God do not live in accordance with their confession of faith. When we break God’s laws, we not only dishonor ourselves but also bring shame upon God, especially as His chosen people.
In our current era, the world is closely scrutinizing those who profess their faith. People listen to our words and observe the way we live. While our words hold significance, it is our actions that carry even greater weight.
The conclusions that others draw about God are often influenced by what they witness in our lives. Our lives become a guiding compass for others. Thus, we must ask ourselves: Does the purity of our doctrine, our understanding of God, align with the purity of our actions in daily life?
Interestingly, God has more cause to judge a Christian than a non-believer. As Jesus taught in Luke 12:48, “To whom much is given, much will be required.” As followers of Christ, we have been entrusted with great knowledge and understanding of God’s truth.
With this knowledge comes a greater responsibility to live in a manner that reflects His character and teachings. When we fall short, we not only let ourselves down but also disappoint God and cast doubt upon His existence in the eyes of others.
Pastor Rich is a dedicated minister and experienced business owner. I received my Master of Theological Studies from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and my Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Spurgeon College. With over eight years of experience in the ministry, I currently serve as the Outreach and Evangelism Pastor at First Baptist Church Springfield, MO.
Before dedicating my life to the ministry, I was a successful business owner in the Kansas City area for nearly twenty years. However, later in life, I felt the call to faith and ministry and eagerly answered it.
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