Works Is Another Word for Obedience

(Pro 10:16 KJV)  The labour of the righteous tendeth to life: the fruit of the wicked to sin.

One of the struggles some people have with the Christian life is the juxtaposition of faith and obedience.  Some might choose the words grace and works.  Faith and grace emphasize the inability of sinful humans to pay the price for their sins.  Obedience and works remind us that we are to be “righteous” (6662).  Glorification of one side or the other tends to push some into accepting sin and others into legalism.  Both are taught.  Both are required.

The emphasis in this verse is on obedience.  How do you live?  If you are walking the walk then you are called “righteous” and have the promise of “life” (2425b).   Don’t like me saying that from the Old Testament?  How about the words of Jesus.

(Joh 15:10 KJV)  If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.

Or how about an even stronger statement?

(1Jn 2:4 KJV)  He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

So?  Believe.  Trust.  Glory in His grace.  And walk in righteousness.  It is not an option.