Personal spirituality is vain if we are not seeking to advance the kingdom in acts of righteousness. Our piety is useless if it is not joined to deeds of compassion. Our faith without works is dead. Our devotional life is meant to equip us to live a life of devotion and service. It is not an end within itself. It is meant to equip us to be true disciples who follow our Mentor in all the ways He has taught us. It prepares us to get our hands dirty while keeping our hearts pure.
“Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” James 1:27 (NRSV)
