Do Something

Last week, we talked about how God is looking for people who will stand up and be counted, especially in the face of injustice.  We read in Isaiah 59:16  “He saw that there was no one, he was appalled that there was no one to intervene.”  I ended our note with Be Somebody. But be somebody to do what?  Whether big or small, God calls us to not just talk about, even agree on things that aren’t right, but He also commands us to Do Something.  We’re going to look at one of the most familiar verses, found in James 2 that clearly communicates that the walk has to match the talk.

 

James 2:14-17

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?   In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

 

 

Things to think about:

·      Given the protests that have gone on for over a week now, clearly there are a lot people who are motivated to “do something”

o   We can agree that the violence and looting isn’t helpful

o   What constructive actions have you seen people take?

o   Hopefully we can also agree that the Church needs to stand up and be involved

o   What have you seen the Church or Christians do to make a positive difference?

o   What do you think the church’s response should be?

 

§  What Scripture or Christian principle would you use to support that view?

·      Our verse is about seeing the needs of the local community (a brother or sister) and meeting them. 

o   Seeing the needs of the community can come in Small, Medium, and Large sizes

§  Small – one person you know (or know of) where you can meet their needs

§  Medium – a group, area, or other trait that addresses the needs of a larger group of folks.

§  Large – getting involved at the city, state, or national level to affect change for the better

·      Do you find yourself sufficiently motivated to Do Something to bring justice where God has given you the sight to see its absence?

o   What does that look like for you?

§  If not, James 1:5 - If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

o   Have you already begun to put your faith into action?

o   Do you need an extra dose of courage to overcome any fear or reluctance to act?

§  Psalm 56:3-4 - When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.  In God, whose word I praise— in God, I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?

My prayer for each of us that we will find our role in addressing injustice in whatever form God has called us to intervene.