Without?

As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.                 Jas. 2.26

This is a sobering and challenging statement. The reality of the first phrase leads to the truth in the second phrase.

Life comprises body, soul and spirit. When all three are present life will flow and, hopefully, abundantly. When one of these elements is lacking then the fullness of life is lost. Indeed, I can picture a body without spirit as something of a zombie – not a way to live!

James then compares this to faith without deeds. This warning has been there for all to see down through the ages. But I wonder how many have taken notice. Let me take heed! May I be willing to exercise my faith in the reality of deeds. I don’t want to live with a dead faith. I want my faith to be alive, vibrant and powerful.

Similarly, may I live in a body that is intimately entwined with soul and spirit. And let me not know just the human spirit. No, I pray the Holy Spirit will fill me with life and lead me into all manner of amazing deeds in witness to my Lord Jesus Christ. I want to live, and live abundantly – in Him!

O Mighty God,

I am nothing without Your Spirit. As surely as I know my body lives in conjunction with my spirit, let me also know that I live in Your Holy Spirit.

I ask for the fullness of Your Spirit in my life. May I live each day in You, with You, and for You. May Your Spirit pour forth in the deeds that I do. May Your praise and glory be ever on my lips. May I live, truly live, in You.            Amen.