July 15: Living Out An Active Faith

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Carol Nyack, 
Shepherdess, CIC
Theme: Being a Doer, Not Just a Hearer

“Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 

Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew 

me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my

 works.” – James 2:17–18 (KJV)

Our home buzzed with excitement as we packed for an overseas evangelistic crusade, where my husband would serve as the speaker. The tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread filled the house, while gospel music echoed in the background—a gentle reminder that sunset worship was drawing near to usher in the holy Sabbath.

Meanwhile, our two boys—ages 4 and 6—busied themselves selecting clothes and toys to share with other children they might meet during our travels. Their enthusiasm was contagious as they attempted to stuff their chosen treasures into a large bag. But suddenly, a roadblock: the zipper was jammed. Tugging, yanking, and even WD-40 couldn’t coax it open. With weary hands, we collapsed on the bed, trying to puzzle out a solution.

Then, wide-eyed and earnest, our older son exclaimed, “Aha! I know, Mom—let’s pray and Jesus will open it.” His faith sparked something inside me. Though hesitant at first, I saw the longing in his eyes, and thought, “Yes—let's put faith into action.” Together we knelt, and he prayed with a sincerity that pierced the heavens, asking Jesus to open the bag so he could bless other children.

As he prayed, I quietly pleaded with God too: “Lord, just this once—let his prayer be answered, like the stories we read at bedtime. Grow his faith through this moment.”

The boys sprang to their feet, placed the bag on my lap, and said expectantly, “Here, open it, Mom.” I whispered a prayer, gripped the zipper, and to our amazement—it slid wide open without resistance. Joy erupted as they rushed to share the good news with Dad, who joined us in kneeling again—this time in gratitude for a God who answers even our smallest requests.

Reflect:

·        Is this a glimpse of how to seek God in all aspects of life?

·        Could this moment reflect what it truly means to live out active faith?

·        Is faith with works truly alive in this experience?

·        What might your “zipper moment” be today?

You could be just minutes away from your miracle. Like our boys, don't give up—linger, believe, and act. Faith in motion invites God to move.

Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. When trials come, may our faith press nearer to You. Take our rusted belief and revive it. Make it alive, active, and expectant—in Jesus’ name, Amen

 

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