“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22).

There is a big difference in simply hearing, and doing. Think of a child with their parent. A mom tells a little boy, “son, pick up your toys.” The child refuses and later explains, “I heard you, but I really didn’t want to do that.” Will that go over well?

Or what about a basketball coach to his point guard? The coach insists, “four passes before we shoot!” Nonetheless, the player has the hot-hand, dribbles down, jacks up a shot without a pass being made. A time or two of that and he will likely be warming the bench.

Both the mother and the coach were worthy of respect and obedience. Their clear instruction should have been heeded. All the more, this concept is true when it comes to God and His word to us.

God has revealed His will in the Bible. At times, some who have been taught the truth (but are unwilling to submit to it) will state, “I know what it says, but…” They acknowledge that they HEAR what God is saying, but they’re not about to DO it.

Be not deceived. When it comes to God’s word, be a doer and not a hearer only.