Root and Fruit (James 2:14-17)

Not a contradiction

People sometimes set James against Paul, faith and works against grace. DeWayne says they're describing the same tree. Paul talks about the root: saved by grace through faith. James talks about the fruit: faith that never produces anything should make you look again at the root.

The envelope

A few years earlier, DeWayne and his wife were struggling financially. At church, someone handed him a card with $1,500 inside, the difference between paying the rent or not. Two years later he learned it came from one of the poorest couples in the church, and it was their entire savings. By then God had turned his family's finances around, and he was able to help that same couple when they needed it.

Pray now

Instead of "I'll pray for you," DeWayne has learned to say, "Let's pray," even if that means standing arm-in-arm outside a restaurant while people walk around you.

From the group

One man gave his last $3 when the Spirit nudged him. Another told of a friend who dropped his last $20 in the offering and was handed $3,000 after church. And sometimes the work is just showing up with ten guys and a moving truck.

Try this

• The next time someone shares a need, pray with them right then.
• Look for one practical need you can meet this week.