AMY TURNER

When we hear God’s word but do not follow it, we lose sight of who we really are. James 1:23 compares this to someone who looks in a mirror and then quickly forgets their own face. It sounds strange, because most people remember what they look like after looking in a mirror. But James is making a deeper point—not about how we look, but about our spiritual life.

This verse warns us that simply listening to the Bible is not enough. If we do not act on what we learn, we become spiritually confused. Just like a mirror shows us our physical appearance, God’s word shows us who we truly are. But only when we live out what the Bible teaches do we stay rooted in that truth.

Obeying scripture helps us understand our identity in Christ. Without obedience, our faith becomes weak, and we forget our purpose.

Jesus said in John 14:23, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching.” Living by God’s word keeps us strong in faith and clear about who we are.