"Real Faith"

You’ve heard ‘em say that they believe,

The Good Lord heard ‘em, too,

But devils do and don’t receive,

The same for me and you.

Faith that’s silent isn’t real,

Our hearts believe, then say,

That He is Lord and that’s the deal,

Confirms salvation day.

Faith will always show in love,

We passed from death to life,

Born by the Spirit from above,

And drives out hate and strife.

Faith will chase morality,

Repentance brings its fruit,

Godly sorrow, thankfully,

Right attitudes to boot.

Faith produces works, you see,

The evidence is clear,

Without it dead as dead can be,

But real when they appear.

Faith will shine just like a light,

And work like salt on earth,

A shield protecting in the fight,

It has eternal worth.

“If we love our brothers and sisters who are believers, it proves that we have passed from death to life.” (1 John 3:14, NLT)

We understand that we cannot earn right standing with God. It must be received by faith. But authentic faith prompts righteous action, and there are no exceptions. One of the greatest manifestations of genuine faith is love for others. John says that our love proves that we have passed from death to life. Jesus said all men would know that we are His disciples by our love. This may be more true now than ever before. Why? Because secular society is so divided and hateful. When people have such violent contempt for each other, real Christians with real faith will shine like a bright light. Let it be, in Jesus’ name.

Lord, help us to show that our faith is real by the love we have for others, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Herman Walker, used by permission. Thanks, Herman, and God bless you.