Faith without works is dead — not dormant, not waiting for the right time, but lifeless. The Greek word for “dead,” nekros, signifies something utterly useless, like a body without breath. True faith is not simply believing in God’s existence; even demons do that (James 2:19). True faith goes beyond belief to action — visible, tangible evidence of a transformed life. Without works, faith is like a tree with no fruit, a lamp with no oil, or a car without an engine. It looks good from the outside but serves no real purpose.

The works James speaks of aren’t about earning salvation but about demonstrating it. The Greek word ergon refers to deeds that flow from obedience, love, and service. Abraham proved his faith by his willingness to sacrifice Isaac, and Rahab by hiding the spies (James 2:21-25). Their actions didn’t save them; their faith did. But their actions revealed the reality of their faith. Works are the natural result of a heart surrendered to God and a life filled with the Spirit.

Faith is alive when it produces change — in our character, our relationships, and the way we serve others. A living faith bears fruit, not for our glory but for God’s. As Jesus said, “By their fruit you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:20). Let’s take a moment to examine our lives. Is our faith active and alive, or has it grown stagnant? True faith doesn’t just believe; it moves, it loves, and it serves.

Let’s not settle for faith that looks alive but is dead. Let’s live out what we believe.

Just a thought,

PSS

Fear of man is defined as an epidemic of the soul that can be characterized by peer pressure, worry, and codependency. It is the act of placing others before God in one’s life.

Being robbed:

We all deal with this at some point in our lives — fear of man vs fear of the Lord. Whom do we want to please more? That is the million-dollar question. Whom do I fear the most, reverence, or trust, man or God? The fear of man will rob us of what God really wants for us. 

Pleasing people:

Surely we want, at times, to please others; but never at the expense of serving God. Being a people pleaser is fear of man — being so afraid of being rejected by people to the point that we reject God and His word, that we put someone else’s opinion above the word of God. This hinders so many from honoring God in their lives.

Pleasing God:

So, today we need to ask God to help us recognize if we truly fear man more than God, and ask Him to help us to overcome the fear of man. Let's purpose to do the will of God, the word of God, regardless of what others think. Why? Because we consider what God thinks more than what anyone else thinks.

Let’s develop a fear of God that leads to peace and prosperity in our lives over anything and anyone else.

Just a thought,

PSS

In order to follow God, to accomplish goals, to be successful, we will have to separate ourselves — from people, entertainment, distractions. We separate ourselves — in order to concentrate, to do the work that will be required for us to follow God and be successful.

Change:

Nothing changes if nothing changes. What are some of the changes that you will need to make, habits you will need to break, thinking that you will need to change, to follow God and accomplish your goals?

In-law or outlaw:

Separate means cause to move or be apart. There is always a season when children separate from mom and dad. It’s for their good and health and well-being going forward in life.

We even need to separate from our parents if we are going to have a successful marriage. We can love our parents, honor them, but we must separate from them and cleave to our husband/wife. That means parents don’t get a say in our marriage unless we ask them. They don’t get to bad-mouth our spouse. If you are an in-law and you are interjecting yourself unannounced into your children’s marriage, then back off.

Health:

It’s healthy when kids separate from parents, just as it’s healthy for us when we separate ourselves from this world and its ways and philosophies — from the naysayers and the doubt peddlers. It’s all our choice.

Separate yourself from anything that is a distraction from serving God, and you will see it was well worth it.

Just a thought,

PSS

Living a generous life is deeply rooted in the understanding that our time, resources, and abilities are not just for our own benefit, but for the enrichment of others. This principle is beautifully encapsulated in the words of Winston S. Churchill, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Generosity is not merely about financial giving: it’s a broader philosophy that encompasses giving of oneself — time, attention, and care. It's about cultivating a spirit of abundance rather than scarcity, seeing life as an opportunity to enrich others. This perspective is life-changing, transforming every interaction and decision into a chance to positively impact another person’s life.

Scripturally, generosity is a core principle in the Bible. 2 Corinthians 9:7 states, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This verse highlights the attitude behind generosity — it’s about the joy and willingness in giving, not just the act itself. This perspective fosters a culture of kindness and open-handedness, encouraging individuals to give not out of obligation, but out of a genuine desire to help and spread kindness.

The ripple effect of living generously is profound. Anne Frank once said, “No one has ever become poor by giving.” This statement underlines the paradox of generosity — in giving, we often receive. Not necessarily in material wealth, but in joy, fulfillment, and purpose. Generous living has the power to create communities where empathy and support are prevalent, and where the act of giving is valued as a vital part of human experience. It’s about understanding that our greatest legacy is how we impact the lives of others and how we contribute to a world that is more compassionate and kind.

Just a thought,

PSS

Proverbs 29:18 says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” This verse speaks directly to the need for clarity and purpose in our lives. A “vision” here isn’t just about seeing a grand plan; it’s about understanding God’s truth and aligning our lives with it. When we lack direction from God’s Word, we end up lost, following our own desires or the shifting values of the world. It’s like trying to navigate in the dark without a light. But when we have vision, rooted in His truth, it keeps us focused and grounded, even in a world that often pulls us in every direction.

The second part of the verse points to the importance of obedience, saying that those who “keep the law” are blessed. Happiness here isn’t the fleeting feeling that comes and goes with circumstances. It’s a deep-seated joy and peace that come from walking in step with God’s ways. We see this played out in life: those who have God’s vision and follow His commands avoid many of the pitfalls that lead to heartache and regret. His Word acts as a safeguard, leading us away from paths that harm and toward a life of blessing and fulfillment.

When we understand the importance of vision, it changes how we approach everything — from our relationships to our goals. God’s vision gives us a reason to live beyond ourselves, to look beyond temporary satisfaction, and to pursue something lasting and meaningful. This verse is a reminder to seek His vision daily, to let His truth shape our decisions, and to find joy in obedience. It challenges us to live with purpose, not just to exist, because without vision, we perish — not just in the physical sense, but spiritually, losing the very essence of a life worth living.

Just a thought,

PSS