Application of the instruction’s given is what makes on a disciple of Jesus. James reminds us that hearing only is of no good, and he likens it to a man who looks at himself in a mirror, but immediately forgets what kind of man he is. The purpose of the mirror is for one to look at himself and make the necessary adjustments to correct what is wrong. That is what the word of God is to us. It shows us who we are and the mistakes on us, while at the same time showing us the necessary adjustments we need to make to be like Christ.

One cannot claim to be a disciple of Jesus if they are not following through to do what the word says. A disciple is a student who lives his life according to the teachings of the one he is submitted to.

Our faith in God is demonstrated not just by what we say, but rather and most importantly by what we do. The bible tells us that faith without works is dead. Because I am submitted to the Lordship of Christ, then I am able to receive instruction from his word. Once I receive that instruction, then the Holy Spirit convicts me, cementing that word as truth in my life. Because of the deep conviction I have concerning that word being the truth, then I fashion my life according to the instructions of the word, regardless of what the circumstances around me say or the surrounding culture.

May our actions be a reflection of what the word of God says, may that word become flesh through us because we live what it says.