"You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did." James 2:22
This passage is referencing Abraham who was willing to sacrifice his son because he believed God was telling him to do so. His desire to obey God was a manifestation of his faith in God. When God changes our hearts through his Holy Spirit, our heart's desire becomes to do the will of God. His will becomes our will. There is no conflict. Just as an apple tree produces apples naturally, a person filled with the Holy Spirit will produce the fruit of the Spirit. What is named first in the fruit of the spirit? It is love - love for God, love for others. When people talk of good works, they often confuse busyness in altruistic endeavours with godliness. The true test of a good work is does it show love. That is why faith and works are bound together. The Christian life is all about love.
Dear Lord, thank you for showing us what real good works are. Open my eyes so that I may see opportunities to share the love you have given me.
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