So also faith, if it does not have works(deeds and actions of obedience to back it up), by itself is destitute of power (inoperative, dead) (James 2:17 AMPC). Let's consider an example of the man in Acts

I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live. (Deuteronomy 30:19).