James 1:26

If anyone thinks himself to be religious (scrupulously observant of the rituals of his faith), and does not control his tongue but deludes his own heart, this person’s religion is worthless (futile, barren).

Just being religious and going through the motions of saying the right things and not believing them makes faith meaningless. Believing and following Jesus in our hearts produces the fruit of faith and brings tangible results. The results from believing in faith are why the condition of our hearts being focused on Jesus and the Word is vital.