Do This, Not That – The Presidential Prayer Team

Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. – James 1:22

Most religions of the world are made up of a set of specific rules and laws, clearly outlined do’s and don’ts. But the relational nature of following Jesus Christ is different. Rigid rules and religious laws are set aside to understand and perceive the character and nature of God. The love He displays for His creation inspires a genuine desire by all who know Him to please Him in return.

What can you “do” to please a relational God? Believe! “Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). There is no effort you can expend nor sacrifice you can make to get more of God’s attention or affection. But you can move in His direction with a devoted heart, disregarding obstacles, believing in His goodness, and cultivating your relationship with Him.

Jesus set the example, “I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father” (John 14:31). By following Christ’s model and pursuing God’s will and ways, you will be accomplishing God’s work on Earth. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).

Pray for God’s people in the United States to be active listeners and action-oriented doers of His will. Ask that those serving in America’s courts of justice would uphold God’s will and laws as they interpret human-made laws and rules, honoring Him with their devotion.

Today’s Verse: James 1:22

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Recommended for further reading: Galatians 3:23-27

²³Now before faith came, we were held captive under the law, imprisoned until the coming faith would be revealed. ²⁴So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith. ²⁵But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, ²⁶for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. ²⁷For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.