"Somebody slap your neighbor and tell 'em, God is turning that thing around!" says the preacher back to the standing audience. So, I turn to my neighbor enthusiastically and give them a high-five as a wave of praise goes through the building. We're uplifted, encouraged, and we all go home with a heightened level of expectation.
There's nothing like a good word to stir the soul.
But unfortunately, many people take that word, hold on to it tightly, and never do anything to work toward what they're believing God to do in their lives. So then, naturally, between revelation and manifestation, they experience frustration and disillusionment. And they begin feeling like God has failed them somewhere along the way, as if, the word doesn't work.
They're right. The word doesn't work without two things: Faith and Work (See James 2:14-26).
Anything you're believing God for, requires corresponding action.
Great marriages don't just happen; you work at them. Great parental relationships aren't guaranteed; you work on them. Fruitful careers aren't a given; you work on them; Businesses don't just flourish overnight; you work on them. High academic achievement isn't guaranteed; you work toward it. Good health is not just a given; you work to maintain it.
Everything requires work.
But when you combine work with unwavering faith in God's word, that's when you see results. You've got to believe while you strive to achieve that which you know God says you can attain.
Now, will He give you favor and open doors for you that you cannot open for yourself? Of course. He absolutely will. I've seen this come to pass in my own life countless times. But this only happens when you're already walking that path of purpose He has laid out and predestined for you.
Remember this. Favor follows those who are faithful to the call of God.
So today, I encourage you get happy about working. Believe God to bless your efforts and watch what new things He does in your life. Next time, you'll be "slapping your neighbor" and telling them, God already turned that thing around, because you put your faith to work.
As always, thanks for reading and until next time... may you be empowered to prosper!
Dianna Hobbs
