The Bible states, “But be doers of the word, and not hears only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22). It is absolutely essential for believers in the Lord Jesus Christ to put in practice the teachings of God’s Holy Word. How else can we live spiritually productive, God-pleasing lives and thereby obtain the great blessings God has in store for His people?
The word “do” is an “action” verb, which means “to act on, or to carry out.” Hence, “doers of the Word” means to act on, or to carry out what the Bible instructs or teaches in everyday living. For instance, the Bible says we must always pray. The Apostle Paul writes, “Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18). So then, if we are not acting on this instruction to “pray without ceasing,” we are not being doers of the word.
James continues, “For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like” (James 1:23-24).
Here are some reasons why we fail to practice what the Scriptures teach. Maybe there’s a lack of diligence in studying the Scriptures and trying to memorize it. This becomes “head knowledge” only; and not result into action. Another reason could be the preoccupation with non-spiritual things that seize our minds and thought processes. Yet another reason could be if there is an unpredictable change in our circumstances which preoccupies our minds.
Admittedly, there are legitimate issues in life which may affect us as being fully compliant with Scripture, even though there is a willingness and desire to do so, Rest assured God knows and understands. However, this should be more the exception rather than the rule. Whenever there is the will to do something, there will be the way to do it! Reading and studying God’s word and with its application in mind, will be pleasing God. And of course He will be pleased to reward the effort.
The Bible tells about the “blessed man” that “his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night” (Psalm 1:1). Biblical meditation is most vital for spiritual growth and maturity.
When Joshua succeeded Moses as Israel’s leader, God told Joshua, “This Book of the Law” shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, then you will have good success” (Joshua 1:8).
Notice these words “be careful to do all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, then you will have good success.”
The Lord Jesus told His disciples: “Why do you call me ’Lord, Lord’ and not do what I tell you” (Luke 6:46). Real faith involves not just hearing Jesus’ words but actively putting them into practice.
There is no time like the present to act on God’s Word. Therefore, don’t delay being a doer. You will surely reap great spiritual benefits. There are times when a missed opportunity never comes back again. Also remember words by themselves are no substitute for actions.