Sunday, July 27, 2025

James 1:22
But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.

It's one thing to agree with truth, and it's another to let it change you. James doesn't sugarcoat it: simply hearing God's Word without acting on it isn't only unhelpful, but also foolish.

The real danger? We can convince ourselves we're growing spiritually just because we're learning more, when in reality, true transformation only happens when we live it out.

It may feel spiritual, even impressive, to know a lot about God. But knowing about him is not the same as knowing him. Obedience, born out of love, is the difference.

This week, as we continue to live out a life with genuine faith and focus on what God is teaching us, remember: what you do with what you hear reveals who you trust.

Discussion Questions:

Ice Breaker: If someone followed you around for a day, what's one habit or action they'd assume is important to you?

What would a church or group of people look like if everyone committed to not just hearing God's Word but living it out daily?

Read: James 1:19–25:  Why do you think James emphasizes fooling yourself as a danger of hearing but not doing? What's the difference between religious performance and faithful obedience?

What steps can you take today to be obedient to what you’ve been hearing from God?

Reflect and Respond: Where in your life are you most tempted to stop at hearing God's Word instead of living it? Pray for a heart that responds quickly to his voice—not out of guilt, but out of love. 

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I don't want just to hear your Word—I want to live it. Please help me to recognize the areas where I've settled for knowledge without obedience. Give me the courage to respond to your truth, even when it's difficult or costly. Shape my heart to desire you more than comfort, and may my life reflect the love and grace you've shown me. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Psalm 85:8
I listen carefully to what God the Lord is saying, for he speaks peace to his faithful people. But let them not return to their foolish ways.

This post was written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content for the Daily LivingItOut.