In 2 Peter 1, the apostle gives us a building block list of add-ons. Of note is the first, “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness.” (2 Peter 1:5 NIV)

Hebrews 11:1 tells us, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”

Faith is belief.

Belief that God will do what He says.

Belief that what He says is good.

Belief that leads to action. Hence, add to your faith goodness, because faith without action is simply theory. Or as James puts it, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” (James 2:17b NIV)

Like my abs.

I can believe that sit-ups, crunches, and planks will strengthen my core, but until I do them, I’ll be a couple shy of the six-pack I want.

I can believe classes on biblical finance will help my money management, but nothing happens until I write my tithe check and create a budget.

I can believe more time with God will deepen my relationship with Him, but until I schedule the time and show up, the relationship will feel distant.

So, what place in your life is marked by theory? In what place is your application vibrant and consistent?

Look at those areas of strength. What are you doing here that you could apply to a struggle spot?

Choose one area where your head knowledge trumps your heart knowledge. For me, I struggle with sharing my faith. I have dear friends who do not have a personal relationship with God, and I’m afraid to talk to them about it. My action step? Prayer. For a prepared heart, for both of us, and for courage to speak.

What’s yours? Move out of theory today. Own it and add some action.

Questions:

In what area do you have heart knowledge? How do you apply it?

In what area do you have head knowledge only?

Ask God to reveal the hang-up and how to overcome it.

What action step will you take?

Family Application:

Read James 2:14-17. Talk about head vs. heart knowledge.

How can your family add goodness to your faith? (A service project?)

Have each member name a specific application.

Tweetables:

Belief leads to action. Hence, add to your faith goodness, because faith without action is simply theory. Click To Tweet
So, what place in your life is marked by theory? In what place is your application vibrant and consistent? Click To Tweet
Move out of theory today. Own it and add some action. Click To Tweet