Imagine parents telling their children, “Tomorrow, we're going to Europa Park!” Weeks go by, they repeat this promise, but nothing happens. Or imagine a friend telling you that he's moving and will need help. You listen to him, you encourage him, but when he needs a hand... no one is there.
These situations show us what James explains in his epistle: sometimes words alone are not enough.
In James 2:17, it is written: “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."
In other words, faith that is not translated into action is like a lamp without electricity: it exists, but it does not give light.
Faith is not just in the head
Believing in God is first and foremost a matter of deep trust in Him. However, this trust should be reflected in our daily actions and decisions. If this faith is not manifested in love, service, and kindness, it remains inactive, like a promise that is never kept. Actions give life to what we believe in our hearts.
Concrete examples in the Bible
James illustrates his point with two powerful examples:
- Abraham: willing to offer his son in obedience to God, he showed that his faith was alive (Genesis 22).
- Rahab: a marginalized woman, she risked her life to protect strangers (Joshua 2).
These stories remind us that faith is proven through actions, especially when it comes to helping those in need.
Faith and works: a partnership, not a contradiction
If we interpret it incorrectly, we might think that the Bible opposes faith and works. In reality:
- Faith in Jesus Christ saves us because God loves us and forgives us.
- Works are the natural reflection of this faith, the visible testimony of what God does in our hearts.
Thus, faith and actions go together: one cannot exist without the other.
What does this mean for us today?
A living faith means:
- Seeing the needs around us and not remaining indifferent.
- Take concrete action: listen, help, support, encourage. Put our talents and skills at the service of others.
- Put your talents and skills at the service of others: professional skills, creativity, sports, teaching, organization, interpersonal skills, etc.
From faith to action with SIM Switzerland
At SIM Switzerland, we believe that faith is fully lived out in commitment to others. There are many ways to put your faith into action:
- Participate in humanitarian projects
- Support education and healthcare in isolated regions
- Share God's love through concrete and sustainable actions
Every action allows us to be the light and salt of the Earth, wherever we are.
Take action today
You can:
- Discover our opportunities for getting involved
- Learn about SIM's current projects
- Support SIM Switzerland's staff through prayer, presence, and financial contributions
Faith becomes real when it is transformed into action, and every action helps to spread God's love around us.