Deut. 7-9

God went before His people and prepared the victory for them, but He challenged them to actively take possession of the Promised Land. He fought for them and directed them, but He insisted upon their obedience and advancement.

Faith without works is dead, so says James. [Jam. 2:20] Faith is revealed through active obedience. Talk is cheap. Deeds and actions show forth God’s power and give Him something to live in.

One Christmas I took the Redeemer Church choir and support cast to the mall to perform our evangelistic musical. I distinctly remember the Lord’s presence overcoming me as we began the program. I felt He told me, “When you step out in faith to do what I’ve asked you to do, I will be there waiting for you and will give you grace to enact your deeds of righteousness.”

To obey is better than sacrifice.