Even though faith without works is dead (James 2:14), I have to be careful not to put too much emphasis on "works," because I am justified by faith apart from works. (Rom 3:28)
I don't want to live like Martha anymore! I want to be like Mary at the feet of Jesus! (Luke 10:38-42)
I have been saved by grace through faith, which is a free gift from the merciful God and not because of anything I have done! (Eph 2:8, Rom 11:6)
Yes, I was created by God, in Christ Jesus for good works, but I don't have to stress about whether I'm doing enough to serve Him! God already prepared the good works for me! (Eph 2:8-10)
I don't have to stress and worry because God is control, and He has a plan and a purpose for me. He wants what is best for me. I trust Him because I am His child so He is providing, protecting, and guiding me.
His yoke is easy and His burden is light.
"Be still and know that I am God," says the Lord.
Trust in the Lord and He will direct your path.
So if faith without works is dead, then what is living faith?
I think living faith is walking in the Spirit.
Since God already prepared the good works for me to walk in, then I need to surrender my flesh and live by the Spirit. Instead of walking in the flesh, I must walk in the Spirit. (Gal 5:25)
The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. Galatians 5:22-23
So living faith is...
Not worrying about what I do,
Not stressing over doing enough,
Not walking in the flesh,
Not living like Martha, but
Worshiping Jesus like Mary,
Trusting the Lord,
Resting in the Lord,
Seeking first the kingdom of God,
Depending on God,
Spending quality time with Jesus,
Walking in the Spirit.
Dear Lord, thank you for your mercy, your grace, your provision, and your guidance. Please fill me with your Holy Spirit every day. Help me to walk in the Spirit. Amen.
