James says that faith without works is dead.

“Works” in this instance, and even James speaks from this point, is meant by actual doing, it’s a verb. He mentions helping women and children, serving your community, things of that nature.

What about works as a noun. “Works” as in the areas and times that our faith is tested. Faith without being tested means nothing. He mentions this, too.

It’s tough to keep focus on this idea when the trials are great, when the opposition is roaring it’s head.

If we’re able to apply stewardship to non-physical things, we’re able to fit it into this idea of works as a noun. Struggles and trials don’t come from our father, but from the other guy. The trails are noise surrounding his voice, they’re distractions. Scary ones, too.

I am struggling to be a good steward of my heart, my eyes, my character. In this trial, I am fighting him in healing my heart to become more like him, letting his character traits grow in me.  I am quickly looking away at other things and getting frustrated and turning away from him.  I ask him for the things I think I need and lose sight of what else He is doing in me.

He seems to be telling me (yet again) to quit looking there, and look at Him.

Psalms 46:10