Tell and Show - by Sandra Fischer
So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. (James 2:17 ESV)
Most writers who want to improve their skill are advised to use words that “show” their story more than merely “telling” it. James gives the same kind of admonishment to believers when he encourages them to “show” their faith by their deeds. “What is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works?. . .if a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, be warmed and filled', without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So, also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” (James 2:14-17 ESV)
Our behavior displays what we say we believe. While faith is the root of salvation, works are the fruit of it, the proof that what we “tell” is “shown” in what we do. Lip service comes easy for all of us, but putting our hearts and hands to fulfill what we say gives life to our words. D.L. Moody said the Bible should be bound in shoe leather, putting feet to our faith.
As believers we know we are saved by faith – a gift of God – but it becomes a working faith when we unwrap it to show it is not faith by works, but faith that works - a faith that reveals Christ in us, the hope of glory. Someone has said the best sermons given are those that, if necessary, use words. We are called to “tell” and “show” the gospel.
Sandra is a longtime FaithWriters Member, retired and living in South Carolina. She enjoys writing inspirational stories to encourage others. Contact
