More Than Listening

First Christian Church of Chicago
Feb 5
2 min read

Scripture Focus: James 1:22

“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” (NIV)

Devotional Thought

Listening to wise instruction is valuable — but nothing changes until you act. You may receive all of the best advice in the world, but if you do not listen it is useless. There is a danger in believing that exposure to Scripture equals obedience. James dismantles that illusion.

Interpretation

James warns believers not to be like those who only listen to God’s word but deceive themselves by failing to put it into practice. The verse stresses that hearing the word without obeying it creates a false sense of spirituality, as true faith is shown through actions that align with what God teaches. James uses a stark contrast between hearers and doers to remind believers that the life-transforming power of Scripture comes alive only when its truths move from the heart into daily living. This passage encourages ongoing obedience as the mark of genuine faith and warns against self-deception that results from ignoring God’s commands after hearing them. Thus, the word becomes a source of real wisdom only when it shapes how believers live.

Contemporary Relevance

The same temptation exists today: reading devotionals, quoting verses, or attending church while avoiding the arduous work of living Scripture out. God’s Word only becomes authoritative when it reshapes our actions—our priorities, habits, relationships, and commitments. Obedience is not legalism; it is relational partnership with God in His transforming work.