Inaction vs. In Action

Daniel 11:32
He shall seduce with flattery those who violate the covenant, but the people who know their God shall stand firm and take action.


Luke 6:46
"Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and not do what I tell you?"

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Life with God is a life of action. Daniel is receiving a message about the end of times. Here he's hearing about a time when people will be led astray by words of flattery, but those who know God will stand firm. The key, I think, goes beyond standing firm. It says they will take action. Too often the Christian is labeled as one who is complacent, but God has always intended that his people be those who stand for what is true, and be people of action, not just defensive reaction.

Jesus says in Luke (to his disciples and the crowds) that people confess Jesus is Lord, but do not do any of the things he asks of them. There may be lots of knowledge, even lots of faith and heart, but without action it's all meaningless.

Something needs to be done about the way we perceive a relationship with God. It can't remain something that focuses only on acting to improve ourselves, it has to be big-picture, more than yourself, kingdom-minded. And it can't include bashing those who are self-indulged. It has to start with my own understanding, and my own willingness to be in action for God, not inactive.