James 2:20
[20] “But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?”
The word “vain” can be translated as “empty”. James has already told us that faith without works is dead. His statement here is more of an interrogation than an exclamation, and he wants the vain man to get it! He wants him to know that there is a void in every man’s life that only Christ can fill. Think about this empty or vain man with me for just a moment.
The vain man’s words are empty. He is always talking and thinking about the temporary. He dwells on the earthly rather than the eternal. It is hard for a saved person to maintain common ground with a vain man. The reason is that the child of God lives in one realm, while the vain man lives in another.
The vain man’s life is empty. He thinks that life is about the riches of this world rather than the glory of the next. He is left empty by the works of the flesh and is more excited about this life than life beyond the grave. He has no assurance or peace in his soul. He may be religious, but he is just as empty as a man who claims no religion at all.
Finally, the vain man’s future is empty. He has not prepared for death, judgment, or eternity. All of his works are in vain, and he is still dead in his trespasses and sins. You might be reading this devotional and recognize yourself, realizing that you are this man and need to be saved. If so, then make today your day of salvation.
You may be reading this and know that you are saved but realize that your life is empty or vain. It can happen to a child of God if all you do is work for the Lord, and you never worship the Lord. When we fail to have a personal relationship with the Lord, our works and efforts are vain. That is why our churches are so empty and dead today. Be sure your walk with God is genuine and consistent, and your labor will not be in vain!