Session 2

How to bridge the gap from knowing to doing

From James: A 10-Day Devotional

In every company or organization, there is a gap between what we know and what we do. One group of researchers describe it this way: “The challenge for companies — and for individuals inside those companies — is to build a culture of action” (from The Knowing-Doing Gap: How Smart Companies Turn Knowledge into Action) In other words, how do we make knowing and doing the same thing?

James, Jesus’ brother, recognized the listening and doing gap long before organizational research existed. In James 1:23-24, he writes, “Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.”

The Bible provides us with the knowledge we need to live a blessed life. So why aren’t more of us receiving God’s promise? Could it be that we are stuck at a level of awareness? We have read and studied the Bible, but we have not made a personal commitment to do what is required. To establish a culture of action in our spiritual lives, we can’t just listen to God’s Word. We have to do what it says.

When we listen and do, our lives change.

James 1:25 promises, “whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it — not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it — they will be blessed in what they do.” By taking action, we live in freedom, we are blessed, our life takes on purpose, and most importantly, our joy encourages others to follow Jesus.

Reflect:

• What is one thing God has called you to that you've never tried to do?  
• What are the obstacles, if any, that have prevented you from taking action? What steps can you take to get past each obstacle?
• What do you need in order to do what God has called you to? Ask God for help finding what you need. As you pray for it, how can you work toward it?