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. But 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. James 1:23-25 NIV
Queen Elizabeth I reigned for a little over 44 years in England, beginning in 1558 and ending with her death at age 69. She was known for her vanity. She dressed elaborately and had ladies in waiting to “paint” her face many times during the day. As she started aging, she became more and more agitated about her appearance. Refusing to accept and deal with her aging caused her to give an unusual order. Historical records say that she had mirrors removed from her palaces to avoid seeing her aging reflection.
That seems a little crazy, doesn’t it? Why not use the mirrors to make the improvements she could make? Denying the truth doesn’t change it. When we see truth about ourselves we don’t like, the only wise thing to do is to reflect on our reflection. James tells us how to do that:
The first is to read it. He said we should “look intently into the perfect law that gives freedom.” That’s not a casual, quick read. Other translations say, “look carefully.” There are two ways to look in a mirror – you can glance at it or gaze at it. Isn’t it easy to just take a brief glance and walk away? After all, we know what we look like, right? But the only way to improve our appearance, to benefit from the mirror, is to spend some time looking. With the mirror of God’s Word, we get the benefit by reading with attention and purpose. God is very willing to show us truth.
The second is to review it. James says, “and continues in it.” Benefitting from the mirror requires consistency and commitment. Let it fill your mind and meditate on it. Jesus said, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples” (John 8:31). The more we hear and read the Word, the more we think on it, the more it shapes who we are.
Last, we are to respond to it. Don’t forget it. Let it change your life. Do what God says.
Remember it. Prioritize it. Take notes. Write down what God has spoken to your heart. Actively pray about your consistent obedience and transformation.
God knows the plan for you – He sees the beautiful purpose. Let HIS mirror help you get there!
- Jesus, the last thing I want is to walk away from the mirror, forgetting who I am. Help me cooperate with Your Word and Your Spirit for transformation.