Faith and Deeds

Last Sunday John was preaching on James 2, and Faith and Deeds.
It's quite something to live by faith, AND deeds at the same time. We can believe certain things, yet not act on them, and vice versa.

We went back to the stories of Abraham and Rahab- and they were in some pretty terrifying positions! I wish I had their poise, grace and sense of peace in far less terrifying situations. I guess that's what comes of hearing, and seeing God at work. You have no choice (well.. you do, but who wants the alternative!) but to go out in action and deeds, in faith, sure of all He has said and his word into all He has promised. And he loves, promises and gives much to each of us!

It's tricky too when at times it seems that faith is accentuated over deeds in terms of importance, or vice versa. The worst situation would be when in words they are both encouraged, but in action one is encouraged over another. It also reminded me too, that God speaks to each of us. I have been re-learning to listen to that still small voice, and while I know I get it wrong so often, or it seems He is silent, or there are moments of absolute beauty and peace in knowing and recognising Him in situations. Can you imagine not though, and not being able to, or being told you aren't able to!?? That would be truly tragic, to have access, but being able to walk through into God's presence in the way that he has made possible through Jesus??

So I guess, it's a step by step, walking in God's presence quietly listening and stepping gently through each day and seeing what new and lovely things God brings.