HOW DO YOU UNLOCK FAITH THAT WORKS: WITH LOVE IN ACTION

By Durrell Dixon | Faith-Based Personal Development Coach & Christian Psychology Advocate


Why Does Faith Sometimes Feel Stagnant?

Have you ever wondered why sometimes our faith feels stagnant—like we’re believing, but nothing seems to be happening? Scripture gives us a direct answer in Galatians 5:6: “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any power, but only faith working through love.”

It’s not about rituals, appearances, or even just having faith—it’s about the motive behind our faith. For our faith to be effective and pleasing to God, it must be powered by love.

Faith That Pleases God Is Rooted in Love

If we’re honest, it’s easy to slip into faith that’s self-focused—believing for things we want, praying for our desires, seeking God for our plans. But the kind of faith that truly moves mountains is the kind that flows from selfless, God-centered love—a love that is more concerned with others than itself.

Think about Jesus. When He healed, delivered, and provided, He wasn’t trying to prove a point or build a reputation. He was moved by love. His compassion directed His faith, and because of that, it produced undeniable results.

Psychological studies actually support this truth. Research shows that when our goals and actions are motivated by values greater than ourselves—like compassion, empathy, and service—we experience greater well-being, stronger resilience, and deeper purpose (Martela & Ryan, 2021). This aligns perfectly with Jesus’ model: faith that produces fruit is always tied to love in action.

Do You Want Your Faith to Have an Impact?

If we want faith that actually makes a difference, it can’t be about us. It has to be about serving, giving, and aligning with what God desires for others. Faith that is fueled by love is not about personal gain—it’s about ministering to the exact needs of someone else because it’s led by the Spirit, not selfish ambition.

The Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13:2, “If I have faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” 

Psychology echoes this wisdom: faith combined with prosocial motivation—acting in ways that benefit others—leads to more sustainable behavior change and long-term growth (van Tongeren & Burnette, 2021).

So, if you feel like your faith isn’t working, ask yourself: Am I believing in something out of love, or is it just about me?

Pray for Love to Fuel Your Faith

Here’s the truth: none of us can walk in this kind of love on our own. It’s something only God can work in us. Pray for Him to develop this love in you. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see people through God’s eyes and operate in faith that is motivated by His heart.

And don’t just pray it—declare it! Speak over yourself daily:

  • “My faith works through love.”

  • “I am led by God’s love.”

  • “My faith will bring real, lasting impact because it is rooted in Him.”

Love-Driven Faith Changes Everything

When faith is driven by love, it carries power. It shifts atmospheres, meets needs, and accomplishes God’s purpose. Psychology calls this intrinsic motivation—when what you do is fueled by deep meaning and alignment with core values. Research shows this produces stronger, more consistent outcomes than external or self-serving motives (Deci et al., 2022). Scripture calls it love in action.

So, let’s believe—not just for our own desires, but for the will of God to be done in the lives of others. That’s faith that truly works.

Final Encouragement

Your faith was never meant to be passive. It was meant to be alive, active, and effective. But the secret is this: faith only truly works when it’s expressed through love. Anchor your prayers, your service, and your daily walk in God’s love—and you’ll unlock faith that doesn’t just move mountains, but transforms lives.


References

  • Martela, F., & Ryan, R. M. (2021). Prosocial behavior and well-being: A critical review. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 120(3), 531–560. https://doi.org/10.1037/pspp0000260

  • van Tongeren, D. R., & Burnette, J. L. (2021). Faith and forgiveness: A meta-analysis. Psychology of Religion and Spirituality, 13(1), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1037/rel0000312

  • Deci, E. L., Olafsen, A. H., & Ryan, R. M. (2022). Self-determination theory in work organizations: The state of a science. Annual Review of Organizational Psychology and Organizational Behavior, 9, 45–74. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-orgpsych-120920-053643

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