GPS ENG: A Faith That Obeys

Let’s read:

Genuine faith is not just something we profess with our lips; it is something that is made visible through our lips; it is something that is made visible through our trust in God and our obedience to His Word. Let’s read James 2:21–26

Genesis 22:1-19

Read Genesis 22:1-19 or watch a video of the story. God asked Abraham to offer up Isaac, the son of the promise. This test was difficult because Isaac represented the future God had promised him and the one he loved and cherished most.

• Abraham’s obedience was profound because it went beyond mere words: he was willing to act even when it caused him pain. By providing the substitute, God revealed that He is faithful to His promises. That is why Abraham called that place “The Lord Will Provide” (Genesis 22:14). The great lesson is that true faith is demonstrated through obedience, even when we do not understand what God is doing, and we trust that He will provide according to His will.

• What stands out most to you about this story?

• What would be the “Isaac” in your life that you would be willing to give up if God asked you to? Why?

James 2:21-22

Abraham believed in God’s promise. His obedience proved that his faith was genuine. His works did not replace his faith; they made it visible. Faith is the root, and obedience is its fruit.

• Why do we sometimes find it hard to obey when we don't understand God's plans?

James 2:23

What did Abraham believe? How does James describe it?

God credited Abraham’s faith as righteousness long before the test in Genesis 22. His subsequent obedience demonstrated the reality of his trust.

• What do you think it means that “Abraham’s faith was credited to him as righteousness”?

• What is the difference between obeying to earn God’s love and obeying because we love Him?

We do not obey to avoid punishment, nor to buy God’s love; we obey because we trust Him.

Conclusion:

• What act of obedience is God asking of you?

Works do not replace faith; they demonstrate that faith is alive.

A TRUTH to remember!!

True faith is seen in the way we live.