Yesterday I wrote that Paul taught us three lessons about being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. We learned that: 1) there are some good things that God does not want us to do; and 2) there are some things that God wants only us to do.

3. When we sense God’s calling, obedience brings blessings. 

When Paul got confirmation from the Lord, he obeyed “immediately.” When the Holy Spirit confirms His call in your heart, obey “immediately” and God will bless the work of your hands!

In James 2, we are instructed to be sensitive to needy brothers and sisters in Christ. This is a specific instruction to Christians for other Christians. There is no doubt that both Paul and James understood this principle. There are some difficult questions in James 2:14-17. Just notice today’s verse.

James’ phrase, “What doth it profit?” is a well-used form of argument. We might paraphrase it, “What good is it?” or “What’s the use?” What good is it if someone says, “he hath faith” or is saved, but “does not have works?” In other words, “What good is it for someone to claim to be saved but never serve God?”

The answer to these questions is “No!” The person who claims to know Christ, but does no “works” or service for Him has never been truly saved in the first place. Church membership rolls are filled with many self-deceived people.