The most important aspect of all theology or Bible study is obedience and practical application (Matthew 7:24-27). The Scriptures not only tell us what to believe, but they also tell us how to behave (2 Timothy 3:16- 17). The only valid expression of conversion is found in our day in and day out practical application of God’s truth as revealed in Scripture (James 2:14-26).

We find in today’s study that God’s word is vital in understanding the will of God for our lives. Here were saints who had come to the saving knowledge of Messiah Jesus, and yet were still bound by the spirit of this world when it came to showing favoritism to the wealthy and influential over the destitute and poor (James 2:1-7). Because that attitude is contrary to the heart of God (Romans 2:11) and has no place in the church of Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:27,28), the Spirit of God addresses it in this epistle. Paul tells us that the love of God will express itself without partiality towards any person or group (1 Timothy 5:21), and James tells us that the love of God will demonstrate itself with acts of kindness and mercy, not snobbery (James 2:12).

In our quest to be theologically correct, may we never forget that incorrect living is never the correct interpretation of Scripture. How we need to realize, beloved, that knowing the will of God is never a substitute for doing it. It is in doing the will of God that we know that we know the absolute truth of Scripture (John 7:17). It is crystal clear that living in the kingdom of God is certainly not found in following the proverbial “ways of the world”. The world applauds the life of the rich and famous, and God declares, “Blessed are the poor in spirit” (Matthew 5:3).

May the Spirit of God find His expression in our lives as we, by His grace, both will and do of His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13).