Scripture:
My brothers, if any among you strays from the truth, and someone turns him back,
he should know that whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his life from death and cover a multitude of sins.
James 5:19-20
Observation:
And here we come to the end of the book. These are James’ last words to the “12 tribes in the Dispersion.” He has spent all of this time giving instructions for how to live. He’s talked about many topics, including trials, wisdom, anger, happiness, worship, grace, faith, maturity, the tongue, humility, pride, finances, and prayer. And his last words are instructing us to help point believers (specifically those straying from the Truth) back to Jesus.
This should not be done in a judgmental or condescending way, but rather as an act of love for the person who is straying. It’s important to point out that James is talking about the Truth with a capital T here. He is not saying we are to correct a person whose theology does not agree with our own. In fact, we are NOT to do this! We are only to address issues related to objective Truth. In order to be able to do this, we need to have maturity in our faith. Maturity to understand which doctrinal issues are objective Truth versus those which are a matter of personal conviction.
Application:
It is so imperative to make sure the log is out of my own eye before addressing the speck in someone else’s! The type of confrontation James is talking about here is ONLY to be done under the guidance of the Holy Spirit! And it is vital to be humble enough to be open to correction myself before even thinking about addressing someone else’s “straying!”
Prayer:
Father, cleanse me and make me wholly Yours! Thank You for speaking to me through the book of James. May the Truths You have shown me make a difference in my life from this point forward. Don’t let me forget the things You have so clearly taught me. Thank You for loving (even) me enough to refine me!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
A Powerful Prayer
Scripture:
Elijah was a man with a nature like ours; yet he prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the land.
Then he prayed again, and the sky gave rain and the land produced its fruit.
James 5:17-18
Observation:
Here’s an example of powerful prayer. Elijah was human. He wasn’t divine, and had no magical powers. But “he prayed earnestly” and his prayer was answered. And an entire country had no rain for three and a half years! (The entire story can be found in I Kings 17 and 18.)
Three and a half years later, Elijah - after being directed by God - prayed again. The result of this second prayer? The sky that had been dry opened, and rain poured out. And the land produced fruit!
Application:
Elijah responded in faith to what he felt God calling him to do. Even at risk of his own life. This is an example of powerful prayer. He is also an example of a righteous man. God chooses to use us (in our humanity) to accomplish His plan. Acting in response to God’s direction will produce spiritual fruit. What an honor and a privilege!
I must respond to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, no matter what the risk to myself may be!
Prayer:
Thank You, God, for using us to accomplish Your divine plan! Make us wholly Yours!
Elijah was a man with a nature like ours; yet he prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the land.
Then he prayed again, and the sky gave rain and the land produced its fruit.
James 5:17-18
Observation:
Here’s an example of powerful prayer. Elijah was human. He wasn’t divine, and had no magical powers. But “he prayed earnestly” and his prayer was answered. And an entire country had no rain for three and a half years! (The entire story can be found in I Kings 17 and 18.)
Three and a half years later, Elijah - after being directed by God - prayed again. The result of this second prayer? The sky that had been dry opened, and rain poured out. And the land produced fruit!
Application:
Elijah responded in faith to what he felt God calling him to do. Even at risk of his own life. This is an example of powerful prayer. He is also an example of a righteous man. God chooses to use us (in our humanity) to accomplish His plan. Acting in response to God’s direction will produce spiritual fruit. What an honor and a privilege!
I must respond to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, no matter what the risk to myself may be!
Prayer:
Thank You, God, for using us to accomplish Your divine plan! Make us wholly Yours!
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Prayer: When, Why, and How
Scripture:
The prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The intense prayer of the righteous is very powerful.
James 5:15-16
Observation:
James is talking about some intense praying! He uses the phrases “prayer of faith” and “intense prayer.” The word “faith” refers to conviction and fervor while “intense” refers to effective and powerful; both words imply a level of energy beyond that often used in prayer. This is more than “bless all the missionaries.” He’s talking about passionate prayer!
Prayer is to be our response to sickness. Interestingly, the Greek word used here can also mean weary. So prayer is also to be our response to weariness. Not just a recited prayer, but a prayer of faith, conviction, fervor. Passionate prayer. What is the result of a prayer of faith when someone is sick or weary? She will be “saved” (i.e. healed or rescued). And “the Lord will raise [her] up” (she will be awakened, energized to serve Him).
Another time we are to pray is if we have committed sins. To sin is to “miss the mark; err, be mistaken; violate God’s law in thought or act.” The word used here for “sins” can also refer to “the complex or aggregate of sins committed either by a single person or by many.” So we are to pray if we have committed sins, but we are also to pray if we are part of a group that has committed sins.” The result of this prayer? Forgiveness! Forgiveness means we are no longer liable to pay for the sins we have committed, those sins are removed from us because of Jesus’s taking them to the cross, shedding His blood as sacrifice for our sin, and defeating death by rising again! (Remember, James is talking about passionate prayer.)
Another time we are to pray is in response to the confession of sins. We are to confess our sins to one another. There is a reciprocity in this. A give and take. This happens in the context of relationship with other Christians. We are to openly acknowledge our struggles, our mistakes, our sins with each other and pray for each other. It’s not a one-way relationship. The result of this mutual sharing and interceding for one another is healing! We are made whole, and freed from error (sin).
Finally, James tells us “the intense prayer of the righteous is very powerful.” Who is “the righteous?” One whose “way of thinking, feeling, and acting is wholly conformed to the will of God, and who therefore needs no rectification [purifying] in the heart or life.” Let’s be real. No human being has achieved this on earth, except for Jesus. Righteous also means “approved or acceptable to God. And we are “approved [and] acceptable to God” because of Jesus’s work on the cross. God sees us as the people He is refining us to be, and as a result, when we are seeking to follow after Him, we are righteous! And our “intense prayer...is very powerful.” Very powerful. Powerful...Having control, influence, or a strong effect on people or events.
(All quoted phrases are from The NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon)
Application:
In summary, in these two short verses James tells us -
When we are to pray:
Prayer is important.
We need to learn to pray effectively.
And praying effectively starts with learning to walk in a manner worthy of Jesus Christ.
Prayer:
As it was yesterday, Father, the cry of my heart is “teach me to pray!” And help me to walk in a manner worthy of the calling You’ve given to me!
The prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The intense prayer of the righteous is very powerful.
James 5:15-16
Observation:
James is talking about some intense praying! He uses the phrases “prayer of faith” and “intense prayer.” The word “faith” refers to conviction and fervor while “intense” refers to effective and powerful; both words imply a level of energy beyond that often used in prayer. This is more than “bless all the missionaries.” He’s talking about passionate prayer!
Prayer is to be our response to sickness. Interestingly, the Greek word used here can also mean weary. So prayer is also to be our response to weariness. Not just a recited prayer, but a prayer of faith, conviction, fervor. Passionate prayer. What is the result of a prayer of faith when someone is sick or weary? She will be “saved” (i.e. healed or rescued). And “the Lord will raise [her] up” (she will be awakened, energized to serve Him).
Another time we are to pray is if we have committed sins. To sin is to “miss the mark; err, be mistaken; violate God’s law in thought or act.” The word used here for “sins” can also refer to “the complex or aggregate of sins committed either by a single person or by many.” So we are to pray if we have committed sins, but we are also to pray if we are part of a group that has committed sins.” The result of this prayer? Forgiveness! Forgiveness means we are no longer liable to pay for the sins we have committed, those sins are removed from us because of Jesus’s taking them to the cross, shedding His blood as sacrifice for our sin, and defeating death by rising again! (Remember, James is talking about passionate prayer.)
Another time we are to pray is in response to the confession of sins. We are to confess our sins to one another. There is a reciprocity in this. A give and take. This happens in the context of relationship with other Christians. We are to openly acknowledge our struggles, our mistakes, our sins with each other and pray for each other. It’s not a one-way relationship. The result of this mutual sharing and interceding for one another is healing! We are made whole, and freed from error (sin).
Finally, James tells us “the intense prayer of the righteous is very powerful.” Who is “the righteous?” One whose “way of thinking, feeling, and acting is wholly conformed to the will of God, and who therefore needs no rectification [purifying] in the heart or life.” Let’s be real. No human being has achieved this on earth, except for Jesus. Righteous also means “approved or acceptable to God. And we are “approved [and] acceptable to God” because of Jesus’s work on the cross. God sees us as the people He is refining us to be, and as a result, when we are seeking to follow after Him, we are righteous! And our “intense prayer...is very powerful.” Very powerful. Powerful...Having control, influence, or a strong effect on people or events.
(All quoted phrases are from The NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon)
Application:
In summary, in these two short verses James tells us -
When we are to pray:
- when we are sick
- when we are weary
- when we have committed sins
- when groups we are a part of have committed sins
- when we share our struggles, mistakes, and sins with one another
- healing
- rescuing
- salvation
- awakening/energizing
- forgiveness
- in faith
- intensely
- passionately
Prayer is important.
We need to learn to pray effectively.
And praying effectively starts with learning to walk in a manner worthy of Jesus Christ.
Prayer:
As it was yesterday, Father, the cry of my heart is “teach me to pray!” And help me to walk in a manner worthy of the calling You’ve given to me!
Monday, March 28, 2011
Prayer and Maturity
Scripture:
Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone cheerful? He should sing praises.
Is anyone among you sick? He should call for the elders of the church, and they should pray over him after anointing him with olive oil in the name of the Lord.
James 5:13-14
Observation:
According to definitions found in The NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon, if we are experiencing hardship or any kind of problem (“suffering”) we are to pray. If we are in good spirits and/or courageous, we are to celebrate the praises of God in song - instrumentally, vocally, or both (“sing praises”). If we are weak, feeble, powerless, needy, poor, or sick, then we are to call the church leaders to come pray for us and anoint us with oil.
This begs the question, who is the church and who are her leaders? It is my belief that the “church” referred to here is a local assembly of Christians who gather for corporate worship. This may take many forms, including traditional American denominations as well as home church fellowships. I do NOT believe that this passage is referring to persons who claim they have a gift of healing (this is an entire study in and of itself). I believe that we are being instructed to call those with whom we have ongoing fellowship, who have shown evidence of spiritual maturity and as such are leaders in discipling, mentoring, and otherwise equipping the saints of God for service in His Kingdom.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, this is done in Jesus’ Name. It’s important to note that doing something “in Jesus’ Name” is not a matter of saying a phrase at the end of a prayer. It’s a matter of reflecting Jesus in everything we say and do, in the way we live our lives every day.
To sum this all up, prayer, praise and corporate prayer for healing are all more reasonable signs of spiritual growth then health, prosperity, or a lack of trouble in our lives.
Application:
One sign of spiritual maturity is that prayer is a first response to trouble. Another sign is that praise is a first response to tranquility, peace, and/or joy. And a third sign is a willingness to ask for prayer (and anointing with oil specifically from our local leadership) when sick or in need.
Prayer:
Father, teach me to pray!
Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone cheerful? He should sing praises.
Is anyone among you sick? He should call for the elders of the church, and they should pray over him after anointing him with olive oil in the name of the Lord.
James 5:13-14
Observation:
According to definitions found in The NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon, if we are experiencing hardship or any kind of problem (“suffering”) we are to pray. If we are in good spirits and/or courageous, we are to celebrate the praises of God in song - instrumentally, vocally, or both (“sing praises”). If we are weak, feeble, powerless, needy, poor, or sick, then we are to call the church leaders to come pray for us and anoint us with oil.
This begs the question, who is the church and who are her leaders? It is my belief that the “church” referred to here is a local assembly of Christians who gather for corporate worship. This may take many forms, including traditional American denominations as well as home church fellowships. I do NOT believe that this passage is referring to persons who claim they have a gift of healing (this is an entire study in and of itself). I believe that we are being instructed to call those with whom we have ongoing fellowship, who have shown evidence of spiritual maturity and as such are leaders in discipling, mentoring, and otherwise equipping the saints of God for service in His Kingdom.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, this is done in Jesus’ Name. It’s important to note that doing something “in Jesus’ Name” is not a matter of saying a phrase at the end of a prayer. It’s a matter of reflecting Jesus in everything we say and do, in the way we live our lives every day.
To sum this all up, prayer, praise and corporate prayer for healing are all more reasonable signs of spiritual growth then health, prosperity, or a lack of trouble in our lives.
Application:
One sign of spiritual maturity is that prayer is a first response to trouble. Another sign is that praise is a first response to tranquility, peace, and/or joy. And a third sign is a willingness to ask for prayer (and anointing with oil specifically from our local leadership) when sick or in need.
Prayer:
Father, teach me to pray!
Friday, March 25, 2011
Mean What You Say
Scripture:
Now above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. Your “yes” must be “yes,” and your “no” must be “no,” so that you won’t fall under judgment.
James 5:12
Observation:
“Above all,” (more than all the other things James has instructed believers to do thus far in his letter), James says, “do not swear.” James is not talking about using offensive language. He is saying do not vow, or offer a pledge or other guarantee so as to add value to your words. He is saying, if you say “yes,” then mean “yes.” If you say “no,” then mean “no.”
Application:
It comes down to a matter of integrity. People should be able to trust that a Believer will do what s/he says without needing extra collateral. If I say I will do something, it’s not permissible to not do it and then say “well, I didn’t promise I would do it.” So this verse has three applications for us today.
We must:
Father, forgive me for times when I have spoken without thinking and then not followed through on what I said I would do. Help me to mean what I say, say what I mean, and do what I say I will do. Show me when to keep my mouth shut and not say anything at all. And thank You, in advance, that You have heard and will answer me! I love You!
Now above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. Your “yes” must be “yes,” and your “no” must be “no,” so that you won’t fall under judgment.
James 5:12
Observation:
“Above all,” (more than all the other things James has instructed believers to do thus far in his letter), James says, “do not swear.” James is not talking about using offensive language. He is saying do not vow, or offer a pledge or other guarantee so as to add value to your words. He is saying, if you say “yes,” then mean “yes.” If you say “no,” then mean “no.”
Application:
It comes down to a matter of integrity. People should be able to trust that a Believer will do what s/he says without needing extra collateral. If I say I will do something, it’s not permissible to not do it and then say “well, I didn’t promise I would do it.” So this verse has three applications for us today.
We must:
- Mean what we say
- Say what we mean
- Do what we say we will do
Father, forgive me for times when I have spoken without thinking and then not followed through on what I said I would do. Help me to mean what I say, say what I mean, and do what I say I will do. Show me when to keep my mouth shut and not say anything at all. And thank You, in advance, that You have heard and will answer me! I love You!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Examples of Patience
Scripture:
Brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the Lord’s name as an example of suffering and patience.
See, we count as blessed those who have endured. You have heard of Job’s endurance and have seen the outcome from the Lord: the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.
James 5:10-11
Observation:
In today’s passage, we see James continuing to encourage his brothers and sisters to remain patient. Look at the prophets, James says, because they are examples of patience during suffering. Who are some of the prophets that showed patience during suffering? Consider Elijah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, and many others. Each has a story of suffering. Elijah ran for his life for years because Queen Jezebel sought to kill him. Jewish tradition says Isaiah died when he was sawn in two by order of King Manasseh. Jeremiah was attacked by his own brothers, tossed into a cistern, and multiple times his life was threatened. Daniel was thrown into a lion’s den. There is account after account in the Old Testament of prophets being mistreated for speaking truth. By name, interestingly, James only mentions Job. Job lost everything, including all of his children and all of his wealth, and yet by the compassion and mercy of God, God “blessed the latter part of Job’s life more than the earlier” (Job 42:12a).
Application:
Perspective is a wonderful gift! Considering what others have suffered because they remained true to what God was calling them, the light and temporary trials we experience in North America are miniscule.
God has blessed me beyond measure, and I am so thankful!
Prayer:
Thank You, Lord, for Your many, many blessings!
Brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the Lord’s name as an example of suffering and patience.
See, we count as blessed those who have endured. You have heard of Job’s endurance and have seen the outcome from the Lord: the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.
James 5:10-11
Observation:
In today’s passage, we see James continuing to encourage his brothers and sisters to remain patient. Look at the prophets, James says, because they are examples of patience during suffering. Who are some of the prophets that showed patience during suffering? Consider Elijah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, and many others. Each has a story of suffering. Elijah ran for his life for years because Queen Jezebel sought to kill him. Jewish tradition says Isaiah died when he was sawn in two by order of King Manasseh. Jeremiah was attacked by his own brothers, tossed into a cistern, and multiple times his life was threatened. Daniel was thrown into a lion’s den. There is account after account in the Old Testament of prophets being mistreated for speaking truth. By name, interestingly, James only mentions Job. Job lost everything, including all of his children and all of his wealth, and yet by the compassion and mercy of God, God “blessed the latter part of Job’s life more than the earlier” (Job 42:12a).
Application:
Perspective is a wonderful gift! Considering what others have suffered because they remained true to what God was calling them, the light and temporary trials we experience in North America are miniscule.
God has blessed me beyond measure, and I am so thankful!
Prayer:
Thank You, Lord, for Your many, many blessings!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Yearning Patiently
Scripture:
Therefore, brothers, be patient until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth and is patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains.
You also must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near.
Brothers, do not complain about one another, so that you will not be judged. Look, the judge stands at the door!
James 5:7-9
Observation:
In this passage, James is addressing his Christian brothers and sisters, those who are waiting with him for the Lord’s return. He encourages them to wait patiently and to strengthen their hearts. They were living in tumultuous times. James was actually martyred, shortly after writing this book, because he refused to renounce Christ. These people were longing, hungering, yearning for the return of their Friend, Lord, and Savior. James is encouraging them to persevere.
James also is encouraging them to “strengthen [their] hearts.” The word heart can refer to the mind and will as well as the emotions. The word “strengthen” here indicates they are to “place firmly, set fast” or “to render constant, confirm, one’s mind.” In other words, they are to choose to focus on conforming their minds, hearts, and will to the Word of God, because Jesus is coming soon!
Finally, James tells them not to complain about each other, because grumbling about others is putting the grumbler in a place where s/he is open to greater judgment (see Matthew 7:2).
Application:
Almighty, amazing, indescribable God, forgive me for the times my tongue has failed to speak kindly about Your children! And forgive me for not being more attentive to Your Word. Fill me with a hunger for Your return, and a hunger to be saturated in Your Word. Open my eyes and ears to see and understand more clearly what You are speaking to me. Thank You for Your grace, Your lovingkindness, and for listening to and answering the cry of my heart! In Jesus’ precious, holy, wonderful Name! Amen.
Therefore, brothers, be patient until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth and is patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains.
You also must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near.
Brothers, do not complain about one another, so that you will not be judged. Look, the judge stands at the door!
James 5:7-9
Observation:
In this passage, James is addressing his Christian brothers and sisters, those who are waiting with him for the Lord’s return. He encourages them to wait patiently and to strengthen their hearts. They were living in tumultuous times. James was actually martyred, shortly after writing this book, because he refused to renounce Christ. These people were longing, hungering, yearning for the return of their Friend, Lord, and Savior. James is encouraging them to persevere.
James also is encouraging them to “strengthen [their] hearts.” The word heart can refer to the mind and will as well as the emotions. The word “strengthen” here indicates they are to “place firmly, set fast” or “to render constant, confirm, one’s mind.” In other words, they are to choose to focus on conforming their minds, hearts, and will to the Word of God, because Jesus is coming soon!
Finally, James tells them not to complain about each other, because grumbling about others is putting the grumbler in a place where s/he is open to greater judgment (see Matthew 7:2).
Application:
- I don’t understand what martyrdom is like. But I do want to hunger, to yearn, for Jesus’ return in like fashion as the early church.
- I am responsible to keep renewing my mind (see Romans 12:2), and to strive to conform my mind, will, and emotions to those of Jesus.
- Scripture memory is essential. I need to step up my Scripture memory and be more committed to it than just a couple of days each month.
- Daily Scripture reading is also essential,
- as is regular, ongoing Bible study
- It is also important to monitor what goes in to my mind. It’s so easy to become desensitized to worldly standards when I am inundated with ungodly messages.
- I need to be careful of my words, and be sure to not be complaining (in word or thought) about my brothers and sisters in Christ.
Almighty, amazing, indescribable God, forgive me for the times my tongue has failed to speak kindly about Your children! And forgive me for not being more attentive to Your Word. Fill me with a hunger for Your return, and a hunger to be saturated in Your Word. Open my eyes and ears to see and understand more clearly what You are speaking to me. Thank You for Your grace, Your lovingkindness, and for listening to and answering the cry of my heart! In Jesus’ precious, holy, wonderful Name! Amen.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Debt and Love
Scripture:
Look! The pay that you withheld from the workers who reaped your fields cries out, and the outcry of the harvesters has reached the ear of the Lord of Hosts.
You have lived luxuriously on the land and have indulged yourselves. You have fattened your hearts for the day of slaughter.
You have condemned - you have murdered - the righteous man; he does not resist you.
James 5:4-6
Observation:
Here is further condemnation of the rich who use their wealth for their own selfish pleasure but have not paid their bills. In addition to not paying their bills (specifically the wages of their workers), the rich have judged and murdered the saints, even though the saints have not been in battle against (i.e. enemies of) the rich man.
Application:
Financial stewardship is so important! It is not okay to spend frivolously when our bills are not paid. Living debt-free should be a goal of each of God’s children, so we are free to love one another. Debt keeps us from being able to love each other freely. (See Romans 13:8.)
Prayer:
Father, help us be wise in spending. May our checkbook(s) reflect Your will and desire for our finances!
Look! The pay that you withheld from the workers who reaped your fields cries out, and the outcry of the harvesters has reached the ear of the Lord of Hosts.
You have lived luxuriously on the land and have indulged yourselves. You have fattened your hearts for the day of slaughter.
You have condemned - you have murdered - the righteous man; he does not resist you.
James 5:4-6
Observation:
Here is further condemnation of the rich who use their wealth for their own selfish pleasure but have not paid their bills. In addition to not paying their bills (specifically the wages of their workers), the rich have judged and murdered the saints, even though the saints have not been in battle against (i.e. enemies of) the rich man.
Application:
Financial stewardship is so important! It is not okay to spend frivolously when our bills are not paid. Living debt-free should be a goal of each of God’s children, so we are free to love one another. Debt keeps us from being able to love each other freely. (See Romans 13:8.)
Prayer:
Father, help us be wise in spending. May our checkbook(s) reflect Your will and desire for our finances!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Hoarding Benefits Whom?
Scripture:
Come now, you rich people! Weep and wail over the miseries that are coming on you.
Your wealth is ruined: your clothes are moth-eaten;
your silver and gold are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You stored up treasure in the last days!
James 5:1-3
Observation:
James is addressing those who are materially rich, warning them that hoarding their wealth will benefit no one, not even themselves, because hoarding wealth will result in ruin. Clothes will be eaten by moths. Silver and gold will tarnish. And in the last days, material wealth will be of NO BENEFIT. To anyone.
Application:
This is a timely reminder to consider how I am investing my resources. Am I hoarding them? Am I trying to save them for a future time because I might need them sometime, even though someone else might need them now? In the process of saving the resources (money, clothing, books, even time) am I actually ruining the items so that no one can ever make use of them????
Prayer:
Father, I commit all my resources to You. Use them as You see fit! May my ears be open to hear Your prompting and my heart be willing to yield to Your desires! Thank You that You will supply all my needs. I ask that You use me to meet others’ needs, too. Thank You for loving me and saving me! In Jesus’ precious, holy, wonderful Name! Amen.
Come now, you rich people! Weep and wail over the miseries that are coming on you.
Your wealth is ruined: your clothes are moth-eaten;
your silver and gold are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You stored up treasure in the last days!
James 5:1-3
Observation:
James is addressing those who are materially rich, warning them that hoarding their wealth will benefit no one, not even themselves, because hoarding wealth will result in ruin. Clothes will be eaten by moths. Silver and gold will tarnish. And in the last days, material wealth will be of NO BENEFIT. To anyone.
Application:
This is a timely reminder to consider how I am investing my resources. Am I hoarding them? Am I trying to save them for a future time because I might need them sometime, even though someone else might need them now? In the process of saving the resources (money, clothing, books, even time) am I actually ruining the items so that no one can ever make use of them????
Prayer:
Father, I commit all my resources to You. Use them as You see fit! May my ears be open to hear Your prompting and my heart be willing to yield to Your desires! Thank You that You will supply all my needs. I ask that You use me to meet others’ needs, too. Thank You for loving me and saving me! In Jesus’ precious, holy, wonderful Name! Amen.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Not Doing So Is Sin
Scripture:
So, for the person who knows to do good and doesn’t do it, it is a sin.
James 4:17
Observation:
I first heard the term “sin of omission” as an adolescent. And, quite honestly, at that time I was petrified I would somehow miss God’s will for my life and be walking in sin without realizing that I was. Then a Sunday School teacher taught me that God looks at the heart, so if it was my desire to be honoring Him, He would see and know that and would guide me accordingly. So that calmed my fears about missing God’s will.
As I was studying this verse this week, I saw something I hadn’t seen before. The Greek word for “knows” (oikeios) refers to an intimate knowing, a belonging to a household or family.
So I propose that this verse is saying, to those who belong to the house of God (to those who are His family), we are responsible for doing the good that He has taught us to be True. Once God has shown us a Truth, we cannot simply say “that’s nice, thanks” and go on with life as usual. We must let that Truth transform us more into His likeness. Not allowing that transformation to happen, being stubborn and refusing to let Him teach us and refine us, that is sin.
Application:
I must respond to the things God is teaching me, and allow those Truths to transform my life. I cannot be caught up in fear that what He wants to teach me will be too “hard” to walk out (and so try to shut my ears to what He is telling me). I must remain pliable to His refinement. He won’t force me to accept His cleansing and refining. But not doing so is sin.
Prayer:
From Isaiah 45:9, 12-13, 18:
Forgive me, LORD God, Creator of the Universe, for the times when I have quarreled with You! You are the Potter, I am but an earthenware vessel. You made the earth, and You created me on it. I know You will make all my ways smooth. You are the LORD, there is no one else!
So, for the person who knows to do good and doesn’t do it, it is a sin.
James 4:17
Observation:
I first heard the term “sin of omission” as an adolescent. And, quite honestly, at that time I was petrified I would somehow miss God’s will for my life and be walking in sin without realizing that I was. Then a Sunday School teacher taught me that God looks at the heart, so if it was my desire to be honoring Him, He would see and know that and would guide me accordingly. So that calmed my fears about missing God’s will.
As I was studying this verse this week, I saw something I hadn’t seen before. The Greek word for “knows” (oikeios) refers to an intimate knowing, a belonging to a household or family.
So I propose that this verse is saying, to those who belong to the house of God (to those who are His family), we are responsible for doing the good that He has taught us to be True. Once God has shown us a Truth, we cannot simply say “that’s nice, thanks” and go on with life as usual. We must let that Truth transform us more into His likeness. Not allowing that transformation to happen, being stubborn and refusing to let Him teach us and refine us, that is sin.
Application:
I must respond to the things God is teaching me, and allow those Truths to transform my life. I cannot be caught up in fear that what He wants to teach me will be too “hard” to walk out (and so try to shut my ears to what He is telling me). I must remain pliable to His refinement. He won’t force me to accept His cleansing and refining. But not doing so is sin.
Prayer:
From Isaiah 45:9, 12-13, 18:
Forgive me, LORD God, Creator of the Universe, for the times when I have quarreled with You! You are the Potter, I am but an earthenware vessel. You made the earth, and You created me on it. I know You will make all my ways smooth. You are the LORD, there is no one else!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Acting In My Own Accord
Scripture:
But as it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
James 4:16
Observation:
Some definitions from The NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon:
Application:
Boasting and arrogance can both happen so insidiously in our culture. If God doesn’t move fast enough for my liking, I may take matters into my own hands. OR, if I have a particular skill or talent in an area, I may not wait for God’s movement, but may speak or act on my own accord. It’s important to be aware that this is serious business, and these things need to be avoided AND repented of.
Prayer:
Father, forgive me for the times I’ve spoken or acted on my own accord! I commit today to seek to follow Your perfect will. I want to join You where You are working instead of expecting You to join me!
But as it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
James 4:16
Observation:
Some definitions from The NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon:
- Boast: to glory, whether with reason or without, on account of a thing
- Arrogance: an insolent and empty assurance, which trusts in its own power and resources and shamefully despises and violates divine laws and human rights
- Evil: full of labors, annoyances, hardships; causing pain and trouble; wicked, bad
Application:
Boasting and arrogance can both happen so insidiously in our culture. If God doesn’t move fast enough for my liking, I may take matters into my own hands. OR, if I have a particular skill or talent in an area, I may not wait for God’s movement, but may speak or act on my own accord. It’s important to be aware that this is serious business, and these things need to be avoided AND repented of.
Prayer:
Father, forgive me for the times I’ve spoken or acted on my own accord! I commit today to seek to follow Your perfect will. I want to join You where You are working instead of expecting You to join me!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
"Have A Good Week, Lord Willing!"
Scripture:
Instead, you should say, “if the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.”
James 4:15
Observation:
“Have a good week, Lord willing!” There is a lady in our local congregation who offers this as her standard greeting when she sees someone. Each time I hear this, I was immediately transported in my mind to this verse. Why? This seemingly simple greeting vividly reminds me that my days, weeks, and ultimately my whole life, are gifts from God, and my life is about glorifying Him. Each choice that I make is a choice I have only because He has allowed us free will. Anything I have is because of His graciousness to me. Including a “good week.”
Application:
My calling is to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which [I] have been called” (Ephesians 4:1b). Each moment of each day I need to be seeking to follow His will for my life. That is the logical (and natural) response of a gratefully redeemed soul!
Prayer:
Thank You, Father, for Your graciousness to me! Forgive me for the times I’ve tried to take various matters into my own hands. Help me to hear my Shepherd’s voice as You “guide me in the paths of righteousness for [Your] Name’s sake” (Psalm 23:3b). In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Instead, you should say, “if the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.”
James 4:15
Observation:
“Have a good week, Lord willing!” There is a lady in our local congregation who offers this as her standard greeting when she sees someone. Each time I hear this, I was immediately transported in my mind to this verse. Why? This seemingly simple greeting vividly reminds me that my days, weeks, and ultimately my whole life, are gifts from God, and my life is about glorifying Him. Each choice that I make is a choice I have only because He has allowed us free will. Anything I have is because of His graciousness to me. Including a “good week.”
Application:
My calling is to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which [I] have been called” (Ephesians 4:1b). Each moment of each day I need to be seeking to follow His will for my life. That is the logical (and natural) response of a gratefully redeemed soul!
Prayer:
Thank You, Father, for Your graciousness to me! Forgive me for the times I’ve tried to take various matters into my own hands. Help me to hear my Shepherd’s voice as You “guide me in the paths of righteousness for [Your] Name’s sake” (Psalm 23:3b). In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Legacy
Scripture:
You don’t even know what tomorrow will bring -- what your life will be! For you are a bit of smoke that appears for a little while, then vanishes.
James 4:14
Observation:
The recent devastation in Japan reminds us all that we never know what the day will bring. And days become weeks, weeks become months, months become years, and our lives quickly pass by. In the light of eternity, our lives disappear like “a vapor...vanishes away” (NASB).
Application:
Is what I’m doing making a difference? When my life is over, what kind of legacy while I have left behind? What impact while my life have made in advancing the Kingdom of God?
Prayer:
Lord, let me see the assignments You have for me. Help me serve You wholeheartedly. Keep my focus on what really matters in the light of eternity!
You don’t even know what tomorrow will bring -- what your life will be! For you are a bit of smoke that appears for a little while, then vanishes.
James 4:14
Observation:
The recent devastation in Japan reminds us all that we never know what the day will bring. And days become weeks, weeks become months, months become years, and our lives quickly pass by. In the light of eternity, our lives disappear like “a vapor...vanishes away” (NASB).
Application:
Is what I’m doing making a difference? When my life is over, what kind of legacy while I have left behind? What impact while my life have made in advancing the Kingdom of God?
Prayer:
Lord, let me see the assignments You have for me. Help me serve You wholeheartedly. Keep my focus on what really matters in the light of eternity!
Monday, March 14, 2011
Presumption
Scripture:
Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will travel to such and such a city and spend a year there and do business and make a profit.”
James 4:13
Observation:
James is speaking to those who presume to make plans for another day (they are assuming they will live to see another day), specifically those who plan to use their own things, or other people, and their own intellect to create personal gain.
Application:
How often do I presume something will be true? I must remember each day, each breath, is a gift from God. I must use it for the benefit of others and not for myself!
Prayer:
Forgive me, Father, for the times I have acted presumptuously. May I remember each breath is a gift from You, and may I live my life only in a way that brings glory and honor to You!
Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will travel to such and such a city and spend a year there and do business and make a profit.”
James 4:13
Observation:
James is speaking to those who presume to make plans for another day (they are assuming they will live to see another day), specifically those who plan to use their own things, or other people, and their own intellect to create personal gain.
Application:
How often do I presume something will be true? I must remember each day, each breath, is a gift from God. I must use it for the benefit of others and not for myself!
Prayer:
Forgive me, Father, for the times I have acted presumptuously. May I remember each breath is a gift from You, and may I live my life only in a way that brings glory and honor to You!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Humility
***Our family went away for a few days, so I fell behind in the SOAP of James. As a result, I am combining the last two days of last week into one SOAP note for today, and next week will continue with the study as scheduled.***
Scripture:
Be miserable and mourn and weep. Your laughter must change to mourning and your joy to sorrow.
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.
Don’t criticize one another, brothers. He who criticizes a brother or judges his brother criticizes the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge.
There is one lawgiver and judge who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?
James 4:9-12
Observation:
True humility is understanding Who God is, and who we are, as well as understanding that it is only by His grace that we are able to know Him.
Application:
If I truly understand that the one true God who made the earth and space and time has extended His grace to [even] me, then I will not criticize or judge others. I will understand that I am in no position to withhold grace or forgiveness from others. Nor am I in a place to set myself up as God and criticize or judge others. Only God knows the entirety of their circumstances and only God knows the true state of their hearts!
Prayer:
Thank You, Lord, for Your mercy and Your grace!
Scripture:
Be miserable and mourn and weep. Your laughter must change to mourning and your joy to sorrow.
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.
Don’t criticize one another, brothers. He who criticizes a brother or judges his brother criticizes the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge.
There is one lawgiver and judge who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?
James 4:9-12
Observation:
True humility is understanding Who God is, and who we are, as well as understanding that it is only by His grace that we are able to know Him.
Application:
If I truly understand that the one true God who made the earth and space and time has extended His grace to [even] me, then I will not criticize or judge others. I will understand that I am in no position to withhold grace or forgiveness from others. Nor am I in a place to set myself up as God and criticize or judge others. Only God knows the entirety of their circumstances and only God knows the true state of their hearts!
Prayer:
Thank You, Lord, for Your mercy and Your grace!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Choices
Scripture:
Therefore, submit to God. But resist the Devil, and he will flee from you.
Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, sinners, and purify your hearts, double-minded people!
James 4:7-8
Observation:
These verse give us five decisions (choices) we can make to help us learn to walk humbly in the grace of God each day:
Each day I make choices, and I am responsible for my choices, my actions, and my decisions. A maturing christian’s actions will reflect Jesus more with each passing day. Am I reflecting Him more today than I was last week? Last month? Last year?
Prayer:
Father God, I choose to follow You, to submit to You, to resist the enemy, to draw near to You. Thank You for drawing near to me in response!
Therefore, submit to God. But resist the Devil, and he will flee from you.
Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, sinners, and purify your hearts, double-minded people!
James 4:7-8
Observation:
These verse give us five decisions (choices) we can make to help us learn to walk humbly in the grace of God each day:
- Submit to God. Submission, according to the NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon, is “a voluntary attitude of giving in, cooperating, assuming responsibility, and carrying a burden.” Simply put, submission to God is recognizing He is Who He is, and reacting accordingly. Choosing to follow Him, to take up the work He gives me, and to cooperate FULLY with His directions.
- Resist the devil. This one is the opposite of submission. Resistance is withstanding or opposing someone or something. The weapon used to withstand the accuser is the Word of God. Know Scripture, sisters, and recite it when the accuser comes against you with his lies and he WILL flee from you. In this verse, “flee” refers to escaping danger. The Truth of God’s Word is dangerous for the enemy because it reminds him that God has ALREADY WON the battle the devil continues to try to fight. He will run from It. Know the Word of God and use it to combat the enemy’s accusing lies!
- Draw near to God. The result of drawing near to God? He draws near to us. We CANNOT reach God on our own. But by approaching Him (drawing near), we are asking Him to join us to Himself, and He WILL respond to that request!
- Cleanse our hands. We need to set apart all the things we do, all the tasks we seek to accomplish, and declare them dedicated to God’s work. The word “sinner” is referring to one who is not free from sin. We need to strive to live a life free from sin (in the power of the Holy Spirit).
- Purify our hearts. To “purify” is to “cleanse morally.” “Hearts” refers to our mind, will (choices) and emotions. We are to ensure that our thoughts, choices (which are reflected in our behaviors) and feelings are morally clean, that they are aligned with the Word of God and reflect His Will for our lives. This instruction is directed at “double-minded” people, who are those who doubt or who are divided in interest. We need to be single-minded about fulfilling the mission God has given us in building His Kingdom!
Each day I make choices, and I am responsible for my choices, my actions, and my decisions. A maturing christian’s actions will reflect Jesus more with each passing day. Am I reflecting Him more today than I was last week? Last month? Last year?
Prayer:
Father God, I choose to follow You, to submit to You, to resist the enemy, to draw near to You. Thank You for drawing near to me in response!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Pursued
Scripture:
Adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward god? So whoever wants to be the world’s friend becomes God’s enemy.
Or do you think it’s without reason the Scripture says that the Spirit He has caused to live in us yearns jealously?
But He gives greater grace. Therefore He says: God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.
James 4:4-6
Observation:
Pride is, basically, saying that I know more than God does. It’s pretty insidious and can show up in the most unexpected places. For example, low self-esteem is a form of pride. (If I say I am worthless while God calls me the apple of His eye, I’m saying I know more than He does.) Discontentment is also a form of pride. (If I say I believe God is in control, and then spend my time being unhappy with the circumstances He has allowed me to be in for reasons known [perhaps only] to Him, I am saying I know more than He does.) There are many other (surprising) forms of pride, including distrust, fear, criticism (of self or others), and discrimination. Anytime we say, believe, or do something contrary to God’s Word, that is a form of pride.
God says we cannot be friends of the world and friends of His. God says there are no fence-sitters. And yet, when we turn our back on God to pursue friendship with the world, He “yearns jealously” for us. “Yearns jealously” can refer to pursing with love. God loves us too much to leave us in the world, so He pursues us. BUT He gives us a choice in whether or not we respond to His pursuit. How should we respond? We need to humble ourself. God “gives grace [merciful kindness] to the humble.” And God’s grace
Application:
Are there areas of life where you have turned from God and made friends with the world? Will you respond to His gentle call for you to return to Him? He loves you so much!
Prayer:
Father, I lift before You each woman who is reading this today. I pray You would speak to each heart, and draw back any of us who may have strayed from Your perfect plan. Thank You, God, for pursuing us and allowing us to return to You when we have strayed! Thank You for Your truly amazing Grace!
Adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward god? So whoever wants to be the world’s friend becomes God’s enemy.
Or do you think it’s without reason the Scripture says that the Spirit He has caused to live in us yearns jealously?
But He gives greater grace. Therefore He says: God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.
James 4:4-6
Observation:
Pride is, basically, saying that I know more than God does. It’s pretty insidious and can show up in the most unexpected places. For example, low self-esteem is a form of pride. (If I say I am worthless while God calls me the apple of His eye, I’m saying I know more than He does.) Discontentment is also a form of pride. (If I say I believe God is in control, and then spend my time being unhappy with the circumstances He has allowed me to be in for reasons known [perhaps only] to Him, I am saying I know more than He does.) There are many other (surprising) forms of pride, including distrust, fear, criticism (of self or others), and discrimination. Anytime we say, believe, or do something contrary to God’s Word, that is a form of pride.
God says we cannot be friends of the world and friends of His. God says there are no fence-sitters. And yet, when we turn our back on God to pursue friendship with the world, He “yearns jealously” for us. “Yearns jealously” can refer to pursing with love. God loves us too much to leave us in the world, so He pursues us. BUT He gives us a choice in whether or not we respond to His pursuit. How should we respond? We need to humble ourself. God “gives grace [merciful kindness] to the humble.” And God’s grace
Application:
Are there areas of life where you have turned from God and made friends with the world? Will you respond to His gentle call for you to return to Him? He loves you so much!
Prayer:
Father, I lift before You each woman who is reading this today. I pray You would speak to each heart, and draw back any of us who may have strayed from Your perfect plan. Thank You, God, for pursuing us and allowing us to return to You when we have strayed! Thank You for Your truly amazing Grace!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Fruits of Lust
Scripture:
What is the source of the wars and the fights among you? Don’t they come from the cravings that are at war within you?
You desire and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. You do not have because you do not ask.
You ask and don’t receive because you ask wrongly, so that you may spend it on your desires for pleasure.
James 4:1-3
Observation:
These verses seem to be saying that the primary source of human kind’s difficulties is lust. I have a friend who defines lust as “I want what I want when I want.” I would add to that, “regardless of the consequences.” James talks about three consequences of lust. Lust causes:
These verses bring us back to a couple of themes we’ve seen often here at Better Things.
Application:
I need to make sure my motives are pure before asking the Lord for anything (it’s so easy for our true motives to be hidden even from ourselves).
I need to focus on fulfilling any “cravings” I have in the sweet, thirst-quenching presence of Jesus (see John 4:14).
I need to continue to learn how to love others the way Jesus loves them!
Prayer:
Father, give me an accurate understanding of prayer. Conform my will and desires to Yours. Forgive me for the times I’ve filled my craving for more of You with anything but You. Help me to love others the way You love them. And please let me walk more intimately with You each day!
What is the source of the wars and the fights among you? Don’t they come from the cravings that are at war within you?
You desire and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. You do not have because you do not ask.
You ask and don’t receive because you ask wrongly, so that you may spend it on your desires for pleasure.
James 4:1-3
Observation:
These verses seem to be saying that the primary source of human kind’s difficulties is lust. I have a friend who defines lust as “I want what I want when I want.” I would add to that, “regardless of the consequences.” James talks about three consequences of lust. Lust causes:
- Wars and fights among people
- War within people (cravings)
- Ineffective prayer
These verses bring us back to a couple of themes we’ve seen often here at Better Things.
- Motive matters (petitions to God to conform to our (warped) way of thinking will always result in a “no” response from Him)
- We are commanded to love one another
Application:
I need to make sure my motives are pure before asking the Lord for anything (it’s so easy for our true motives to be hidden even from ourselves).
I need to focus on fulfilling any “cravings” I have in the sweet, thirst-quenching presence of Jesus (see John 4:14).
I need to continue to learn how to love others the way Jesus loves them!
Prayer:
Father, give me an accurate understanding of prayer. Conform my will and desires to Yours. Forgive me for the times I’ve filled my craving for more of You with anything but You. Help me to love others the way You love them. And please let me walk more intimately with You each day!
Friday, March 4, 2011
The Results of Godly Wisdom
Scripture:
And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
James 3:18
Observation:
“Righteousness” is the condition that is acceptable by God. It is reasonable to infer that walking in godly wisdom is the “righteousness” referred to here.
“Peace” is a state of tranquility and contentment. (The word “peace” also can refer to salvation.)
Application:
The fruit of walking in godly wisdom is peace within ourselves, harmony in relationships with others, security in our identity, and contentment with our earthly lot.
Prayer:
Father, teach me to walk in Your ways day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute, breath by breath!
And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
James 3:18
Observation:
“Righteousness” is the condition that is acceptable by God. It is reasonable to infer that walking in godly wisdom is the “righteousness” referred to here.
“Peace” is a state of tranquility and contentment. (The word “peace” also can refer to salvation.)
Application:
The fruit of walking in godly wisdom is peace within ourselves, harmony in relationships with others, security in our identity, and contentment with our earthly lot.
Prayer:
Father, teach me to walk in Your ways day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute, breath by breath!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
How to Have Godly Wisdom
Scripture:
But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without favoritism and hypocrisy.
James 3:17
Observation:
Godly wisdom:
This verse tells us what godly wisdom is, but it doesn’t tell us how to obtain it. And that’s my question. This is what it is, how do I get it?
I think the answer is found in Philippians 2:4-12. These verses tell us we are to have the mind of Jesus in us. So here’s how we do this:
Job 42:2-6 HCSB
But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without favoritism and hypocrisy.
James 3:17
Observation:
Godly wisdom:
- is pure from every fault, immaculate
- brings peace with it
- is suitable and equitable
- is reasonable
- fills the mind and emotions with kindness or good will toward others, and shows a desire to help them (by doing it)
- fills the mind and emotions with good, pleasant, and joyful thoughts and feelings
- is sincere
This verse tells us what godly wisdom is, but it doesn’t tell us how to obtain it. And that’s my question. This is what it is, how do I get it?
I think the answer is found in Philippians 2:4-12. These verses tell us we are to have the mind of Jesus in us. So here’s how we do this:
- Know
- Learn His mind
- spend time studying His Word
- pray
- talk to God
- listen to what He says to us
- Learn His mind
- Yield
- Understand true humility
- know who God is
- know who we are
- Understand true humility
- Obey
- Be RADICALLY obedient to what He tells us to do
- Love
- Love God
- Love others
Job 42:2-6 HCSB
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Worldly Wisdom part 2
Scripture:
For where envy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every kind of evil.
James 3:16
Observation*:
Yesterday we started looking at the fruits worldly wisdom (whether it is fleshly or demonic is irrelevant to this discussion, as either way it is not godly wisdom). Today we continue this.
Envy as used here refers to a “fierce indignation,” a “punitive zeal” or an “envious and contentious rivalry. The word for selfish ambition used here was also used by Aristotle to refer to “self seeking pursuit of political office by unfair means.” In either case, it’s a matter of putting oneself ahead of others by any means possible, which is exactly opposite of Jesus’ instructions to love others and seek their good above our own.
What is the fruit of envy and selfish ambition? “Disorder and every kind of evil.” “Disorder” refers to confusion or disturbance. “Evil” can mean wickedness, worthlessness, or baseness (being without moral character).
Application:
Romans 14:17 tells us that the Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
So “where envy and selfish ambition exist,” the kingdom of God cannot.
I want to be part of the kingdom of God, so there is no room for envy or selfish ambition in me.
Prayer:
Father, remove any unknown envy or selfish ambition from my heart. Fill me with the righteousness, peace and joy that is part of Your Kingdom. Thank You for the incredible inheritance You’ve offered us!
*All quotes under this section are from The NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon
For where envy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every kind of evil.
James 3:16
Observation*:
Yesterday we started looking at the fruits worldly wisdom (whether it is fleshly or demonic is irrelevant to this discussion, as either way it is not godly wisdom). Today we continue this.
Envy as used here refers to a “fierce indignation,” a “punitive zeal” or an “envious and contentious rivalry. The word for selfish ambition used here was also used by Aristotle to refer to “self seeking pursuit of political office by unfair means.” In either case, it’s a matter of putting oneself ahead of others by any means possible, which is exactly opposite of Jesus’ instructions to love others and seek their good above our own.
What is the fruit of envy and selfish ambition? “Disorder and every kind of evil.” “Disorder” refers to confusion or disturbance. “Evil” can mean wickedness, worthlessness, or baseness (being without moral character).
Application:
Romans 14:17 tells us that the Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
So “where envy and selfish ambition exist,” the kingdom of God cannot.
I want to be part of the kingdom of God, so there is no room for envy or selfish ambition in me.
Prayer:
Father, remove any unknown envy or selfish ambition from my heart. Fill me with the righteousness, peace and joy that is part of Your Kingdom. Thank You for the incredible inheritance You’ve offered us!
*All quotes under this section are from The NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Worldly Wisdom
Scripture:
But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your heart, don’t brag and lie in defiance of the truth.
Such wisdom does not come down from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.
James 3:14-15
Observation:
Yesterday we saw an overview of what godly wisdom should look like. Today (and tomorrow) we see the fruits of ungodly wisdom.
James is saying if you have impure motives, if you put other people down in order to feel better about yourself, or if you will lie, cheat, or in any other way act unfairly to get recognized, that these are not behaviors to brag about. Don’t lie (to yourself or others). Because this behavior, and any knowledge, skills, or intelligence resulting from this is not from God, but is instead either fleshly or demonic.
And we are to be Kingdom minded.
Application:
It’s easy enough for us to lie to ourselves, thinking our motives are good when they are in fact selfish or impure. A repeating theme in James seems to be that our actions reflect our true heart (mind, will, and emotions).
It’s important to spend time on a regular basis asking God to continue to clean out the “yuck” in my heart.
Prayer:
Father, don’t let me go to bed at night with unconfessed sin on my heart. My heart’s desire is that my heart and my actions would reflect You to the world around me. Thank You for not giving up on me!
But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your heart, don’t brag and lie in defiance of the truth.
Such wisdom does not come down from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.
James 3:14-15
Observation:
Yesterday we saw an overview of what godly wisdom should look like. Today (and tomorrow) we see the fruits of ungodly wisdom.
James is saying if you have impure motives, if you put other people down in order to feel better about yourself, or if you will lie, cheat, or in any other way act unfairly to get recognized, that these are not behaviors to brag about. Don’t lie (to yourself or others). Because this behavior, and any knowledge, skills, or intelligence resulting from this is not from God, but is instead either fleshly or demonic.
And we are to be Kingdom minded.
Application:
It’s easy enough for us to lie to ourselves, thinking our motives are good when they are in fact selfish or impure. A repeating theme in James seems to be that our actions reflect our true heart (mind, will, and emotions).
It’s important to spend time on a regular basis asking God to continue to clean out the “yuck” in my heart.
Prayer:
Father, don’t let me go to bed at night with unconfessed sin on my heart. My heart’s desire is that my heart and my actions would reflect You to the world around me. Thank You for not giving up on me!
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