Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 15

Meeting Specific Needs

Today we conclude our devotional study of the Epistle of James. I pray this has been insightful for you, and applicable to your daily life. As I said last week, I have greatly enjoyed the preparation and sharing of these studies over the course of the last few months.

As we conclude this study we find James sharing practical words of instruction for the recipients of the letter. As is often the case, there are some portions of the Scripture which need little explanation. The simplicity of the instruction, the directness of the teaching is so clear there is no need for further detail being used as illustrative material. Such is the case with most of the remainder of this epistle. There are a couple of points I do wish to comment on as we read the remainder of James chapter 5.

James 5:12-19 [NASB] 12 But most of all, my brothers and sisters, never take an oath, by heaven or earth or anything else. Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned.

13 Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises. 14 Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven.

16 Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. 17 Elijah was as human as we are, and yet when he prayed earnestly that no rain would fall, none fell for three and a half years! 18 Then, when he prayed again, the sky sent down rain and the earth began to yield its crops.

19 My dear brothers and sisters, if someone among you wanders away from the truth and is brought back, 20 you can be sure that whoever brings the sinner back from wandering will save that person from death and bring about the forgiveness of many sins.

I want to thank Craig Weinberg for producing the podcast, and for hosting it on the Why Milbank Podcast Network. I have thoroughly enjoyed our time together in the recording studio. However, due to health concerns for my mother as well as travel plans and family commitments, we are not going to be doing the podcast this summer. I pray you have a blessed summer and hope to join you again in the Fall.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 14

Patience and Perseverance

We are nearing the end of our devotional study of the Book of James, and I hope it has been beneficial to those who have tuned in to the podcast over the course of the last few months.

On a personal level, it has been beneficial for me to reflect on these truths and to see how they have been evidenced in my life and in those I have had the privilege of serving over the course of the last forty plus years. It has been a reminder of the timelessness of the Word of God to our lives as we remember this letter was written to the early church in the first century AD.

James 5:7 – 11 [NASB] 7 Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. 8 You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. 9 Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door. 10 As an example, brethren, of suffering and patience, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.

As James begins to close the letter to the early church, he reminds them of the importance of patience as they await the coming of the Lord.

This of course has been the hope of the church since the ascension of Jesus as recorded in Acts 1:9 – 11 [NASB] 9 And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, behold, two men in white clothing stood beside them. 11 They also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.”

Patience is necessary as we make our spiritual journey through life. In fact, as we remember in the first few verses of this letter James reminded the early church of the importance of patience which was produced in their lives as a result of the tests and trials they endured along the way. For patience and faith were produced in the crucible of adversity.  James 1:2 – 4 [NKJV] 2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces [a]patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be [b]perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 

To illustrate the importance of patience, James points us to the farmers, who plant their seed, then wait patiently for the rains to come. A lot is happening in the unseen realm before the shoot pushes its way through the soil and grows to maturity. So too, a lot is happening in the unseen realm of the spirit. Patience is essential as we wait for the coming of the Lord.

In the process of waiting James exhorts the listener not to become distracted by their circumstances. We remember how the Children of Israel became distracted by their circumstances as they exited Egypt and began to grumble against Moses. This is a picture of the loss of perspective as they forgot God’s miraculous intervention in their hopeless circumstance, and the raising up of a deliverer to free them from the bondage of slavery. Once delivered they began to grumble against the deliverer and to evidence impatience.

While we may think how foolish the Children of Israel were to grumble against Moses, is not the same dynamic evidenced in the lives of some who having been delivered from the slavery and bondage of sin by Jesus Christ, the Deliverer. In the process of waiting, they have turned on him and, on their brothers, and sisters in Christ with grumbling and judgement.

Listen to what the Apostle Paul said in Galatians 6:7 – 10 [NASB] 7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a person sows, this he will also reap. 8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will reap destruction from the flesh, but the one who sows to the Spirit will reap eternal life from the Spirit. 9 Let’s not become discouraged in doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not become weary. 10 So then, [c]while we have opportunity, let’s do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.

James points to the prophets of old as examples of patient endurance. The Lord allowed them, by faith, to see what was coming. Unfortunately, they often suffered persecution, and death as they waited for the fulfillment of the prophecies.

I close today with a reading of 2 Peter 3 where the Apostle Peter reminded the early church of the same things James is sharing here.  Listen and be encouraged.

2 Peter 3 [NLT] This is my second letter to you, dear friends, and in both of them I have tried to stimulate your wholesome thinking and refresh your memory. 2 I want you to remember what the holy prophets said long ago and what our Lord and Savior commanded through your apostles.

3 Most importantly, I want to remind you that in the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth and following their own desires. 4 They will say, “What happened to the promise that Jesus is coming again? From before the times of our ancestors, everything has remained the same since the world was first created.”

5 They deliberately forget that God made the heavens long ago by the word of his command, and he brought the earth out from the water and surrounded it with water. 6 Then he used the water to destroy the ancient world with a mighty flood. 7 And by the same word, the present heavens and earth have been stored up for fire. They are being kept for the day of judgment, when ungodly people will be destroyed.

8 But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. 9 The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and the very elements themselves will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment.[a]

11 Since everything around us is going to be destroyed like this, what holy and godly lives you should live, 12 looking forward to the day of God and hurrying it along. On that day, he will set the heavens on fire, and the elements will melt away in the flames. 13 But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth he has promised, a world filled with God’s righteousness.

14 And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight.

15 And remember, our Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved. This is what our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him— 16 speaking of these things in all of his letters. Some of his comments are hard to understand, and those who are ignorant and unstable have twisted his letters to mean something quite different, just as they do with other parts of Scripture. And this will result in their destruction.

17 You already know these things, dear friends. So be on guard; then you will not be carried away by the errors of these wicked people and lose your own secure footing. 18 Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 13

Rich Oppressors Beware

We have heard a lot the past few years about the growing gap between the rich and poor in society. Much has been written regarding the ever-widening gap, and possible solutions to the situation. It is not my intention to side with anyone on this matter, rather to simply listen to the Holy Spirit as He speaks these truths to my heart. Money is a neutral vehicle; it can be used for good or evil. It is the love of money which is the root of evil. What James exposes in our reading today is the exploitation of the poor by the rich and the warning to them of the fleeting nature of riches, and the impending judgement which awaits.

James 5:1 – 6 [NASB]

Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries which are coming upon you. 2 Your riches have rotted and your garments have become moth-eaten. 3 Your gold and your silver have rusted; and their rust will be a witness against you and will consume your flesh like fire. It is in the last days that you have stored up your treasure! 4 Behold, the pay of the laborers who mowed your fields, and which has been withheld by you, cries out against you; and the outcry of those who did the harvesting has reached the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. 5 You have lived luxuriously on the earth and led a life of wanton pleasure; you have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. 6 You have condemned and put to death the righteous man; he does not resist you.

The history of humanity is full of the tragic stories of those who had vast fortunes, but lived hollow, empty lives. Who built a fortune on the backs of underpaid workers, or who failed to pay their workers for their labor. Individuals who saw their vast fortunes devoured by foolish investments and who died broken and alone abandoned by the crowds and adoring fans.

Make no mistake about believing the scriptural warning about riches.

1 Timothy 6:9-11 [NASB] 9 But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

11 But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.

Jesus told the parable of the Rich man and Lazarus to illustrate this point as well in Luke 16:19 – 31 [NASB]

The Rich Man and Lazarus

19 “Now there was a rich man, and he habitually dressed in purple and fine linen, joyously living in splendor every day. 20 And a poor man named Lazarus was laid at his gate, covered with sores, 21 and longing to be fed with the crumbs which were falling from the rich man’s table; besides, even the dogs were coming and licking his sores. 22 Now the poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham’s bosom; and the rich man also died and was buried. 23 In Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and *saw Abraham far away and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 And he cried out and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue, for I am in agony in this flame.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that during your life you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus bad things; but now he is being comforted here, and you are in agony. 26 And [r]besides all this, between us and you there is a great chasm fixed, so that those who wish to come over from here to you will not be able, and that none may cross over from there to us.’ 27 And he said, ‘Then I beg you, father, that you send him to my father’s house— 28 for I have five brothers—in order that he may warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’ 29 But Abraham *said, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.’ 30 But he said, ‘No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent!’ 31 But he said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.’”

In summary, Jesus said, “To whom much is given, much is required.”  Therefore, instead of loving money, let’s put to practice what the Apostle Paul said in 1 Timothy 6:11 [NASB] But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 12

Put God in Charge of Your Plans

As we continue the devotional journey through the Epistle of James, we come to a passage which I find most interesting as it addresses the issue of our plans versus God’s plans for us. We all have a tendency to live our lives as though we are the Captain of our own ship, the Master of our own fate. As we do this we lose sight of the fact we are not in control, and the course of our life can be changed instantaneously.  Let’s take a look at our Scripture today:

James 4:13 – 17 [NASB]  13 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.” 14 Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. 15 Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.” 16 But as it is, you boast in your arrogance; all such boasting is evil. 17 Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.

The first thing I see in this passage is the reminder that life is fragile. Those who live in the upper Midwest can relate to the metaphor James uses to illustrate the fragility of life. Who hasn’t stepped outside on a cold winter day and watched their breath form a cloud as the warm moist breath meets the cold winter air? Then watched the cloud disappear in a matter of seconds as the warmth was overcome by the cold air. James says, that is what life is like. In the light of eternity, our 70 – 80-year life span is remarkably brief.

Unfortunately, we live as though we have all the time in the world. We make plans, based on our goals, dreams and ambitions, then we invest heavily of our time, resources, and energy to pursue our plans and goals. James brings us back to reality in these verses.

Over the course of our devotions in James, I have repeatedly said, this Epistle is called the book of proverbs for the New Testament. Let’s look at a passage from the Book of Proverbs as it speaks to the subject of life, plans, goals and dreams. As we look at Proverbs 16:1-9 be alert to the themes which are present in both passages.

Proverbs 16:1 – 9  [NASB]

 The plans of the heart belong to man,

But the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.

2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own sight,

But the Lord weighs the motives.

3 Commit your works to the Lord

And your plans will be established.

4 The Lord has made everything for its own purpose,

Even the wicked for the day of evil.

5 Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord;

Assuredly, he will not be unpunished.

6 By lovingkindness and truth iniquity is atoned for,

And by the fear of the Lord one keeps away from evil.

7 When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord,

He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.

8 Better is a little with righteousness

Than great income with injustice.

9 The mind of man plans his way,

But the Lord directs his steps.

To summarize, both Solomon and James point out it is okay to make your plans, but to submit your plans to the Lord.

The problems arise when plans are made with no thought for God’s plans or purpose.  When we insist on doing it our way, in our time we risk being a modern-day Jonah, not just missing the mark with regards to God’s plans, but literally saying “No” to the Lord’s plans, purposes and way. James calls this out as arrogance and categorizes it as sin. For to know what you should do, and then to willfully do the opposite is exactly that.

One of my favorite hymns is titled SUBMISSION by Charles Austin Miles (1868-1946), an American writer of gospel songs who penned at least 398 songs including IN THE GARDEN.

In the hymn SUBMISSION Charles Austin Miles captures the truth James states so simply. Listen to these lyrics:

The path that I have trod, has brought me nearer God,

Though oft it led through sorrow’s gates. Though not the way I choose,

In my way I might lose the joy that yet for me awaits

Refrain

Not what I wish to be, nor where I wish to go,

For who am I that I should choose my way?

The Lord shall choose for me, ‘Tis better far, I know,

So let him bid me go, or stay

The cross that I must bear, if I a crown would wear,

Is not the cross that I should take; But since on me ’tis laid,

I’ll take it unafraid, and bear it for the Master’s sake. 

Refrain

Submission to the will of him who guides me still

Is surety of His love revealed; My soul shall rise above

This world in which I move, I conquer only when I yield.

Refrain

Our greatest joys, and successes will naturally flow out of submitting our plans, goals, dreams and life to Jesus Christ. Life is so much more fulfilling when we walk in partnership with Him.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 11

No Judgement Here

Following the previous teaching on the impact of pride and the power of humility, James zeros in on the most obvious expression of pride in society by tackling the matter of judgement.

James 4:11 – 12  NASB  11 Do not speak against one another, brethren. He who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks against the law and judges the law; but if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge of it. 12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the One who is able to save and to destroy; but who are you who judge your neighbor?

We live in a society of critics who specialize in judging others.  If you watch a political event, you will have critics telling you beforehand what to expect, you will have critics afterwards telling you what was said. The implications of what was said will be analyzed from every possible angle, and the news cycles the following day will be filled with the judgements of the supporters, and the opposition party.

The same is true of virtually everything in our world today and the impact of social media has unleashed some devastating judgements from people who hide behind a cloak of anonymity provided by the internet to viciously attack others. People are judged for virtually everything:

Look

Clothes

Hair

Use of makeup

Weight

Diet

Friends

Parenting

Discipline

Lack of discipline

Political affiliation

Religious affiliation

Grammar

Environmental sensitivity

Size of their carbon footprint

The list goes on and on.

Sadly the viciousness of the judgement some have received has resulted in people taking their lives because they couldn’t deal with the shame, rejection and pain caused by the judgement.

James reminds the recipients of this letter they are not to judge another. For to judge is to violate the Law of God. Let’s take a moment to remind ourselves what the Law of God requires of us.

Matthew 22:34 – 40  NASB  34 But when the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered themselves together. 35 One of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him, 36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” 37 And He said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the great and foremost commandment. 39 The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.”

In summary, Love God, Love people.

According to James when we enter into judgement against another person, we cease to keep the law, rather we elevate ourselves to be their judges as well as judges of the law.

Wow! You talk about a display of pridefulness, it is expressed in our judgement of others. May I remind the listener, God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.

The Apostle Paul addressed this issue in Romans 2:1-11; 14:1-13

 Romans 14:10 NASB But you, why do you judge your brother? Or you again, why do you regard your brother with contempt? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. 11 For it is written,  

“As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall give praise to God.”

 12 So then each one of us will give an account of himself to God.

What do we do with those who are opposed to us? Jesus said Love your enemies.

The Apostle Paul wrote the church at Rome these words of instruction:

 Romans 12: 19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 “But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.  NASB

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 10

The Power of Humility

Last week we examined James’ warning about pride. To recap he stated the following:

It is the source of quarrels and conflicts.

It results in lust and murder.

It produces envy, fighting and quarreling.

It blinds us to our spiritual needs, and hinders our prayers, due to wrong motives.

As a result of pride, our relationship with the world is like an adulterous relationship, and we are enemies of God. In a phrase, no good thing will come from pride. However, while pride hinders our relationship with the Lord, humility opens the door to God’s blessings.

James 4:5 - 10   5 Or do you think that the Scripture speaks to no purpose: “He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us”? 6 But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, “God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” 7 Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9 Be miserable and mourn and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.

This passage is what I call the tale of two spirits. The spirit of this world and the Holy Spirit. James has revealed the nature of the world’s spirit, beginning with the world’s wisdom, the impact of pride, and so forth. The Apostle Paul addresses this in Galatians 5 by contrasting what he called the fruit of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit.

Galatians 5:16-26  16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. 17 For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. 19 Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, 21 envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. 26 Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another.

Those who follow Christ are called to walk in humility. However, it’s a battle and at times we struggle to do so. James reminds us that while the struggle is great, God’s grace is greater. With that in mind let’s walk in these truths today.

God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble, therefore submit yourselves to the Lord. This is the acknowledgement you can’t do it alone. That you need the Lord’s help.

Resist the Devil and he will flee from you. Stop making him welcome in your life. Stop listening to his accusations and lies. I heard a Christian musician say the following: “Every time the Devil reminds me of my past, I remind him of his future.”  I think that’s an effective form of resisting.

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Take the initiative to come into the presence of the Lord. Through worship and meditation on the Scripture, through prayer and times of quietness press into the presence of the Lord. It will amaze you what sweet times of fellowship, restoration and renewal these times will be.

Cleanse your hands and purify your hearts. This is so important. King David in Psalm 24:3-4 speaks to this matter when he asks:

3 Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord? And who may stand in His holy place?

4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood

And has not sworn deceitfully.  

We are disqualified in ourselves, but by the grace of God we are washed by the water and the Word. The Apostle Paul speaks of the work of Christ in preparing the church for himself. Ephesians 5:25 – 26  25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, 26 so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27 that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless.

Sin is fun for a season, but it ultimately leaves you broken. Your self-satisfaction turned to misery, your laughter turned to mourning, your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord and He will lift you up. Remember the story in Luke 7 of the woman washing Jesus’s feet with her tears. She embodies this very principle of Humility and Exaltation.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 9

Impact of Pride

As we continue our devotions in the Epistle of James, chapter 4, we find again truths which are as applicable to our lives today as they were when written to the early church. This is the beauty of the Scriptures, and with the Holy Spirit’s leading our lives are greatly enriched in the faith as we apply these timeless truths to our circumstances.

James 4:1-4

4 What is the source of quarrels and conflicts among you? Is not the source your pleasures that wage war in your members? 2 You lust and do not have; so you commit murder. You are envious and cannot obtain; so you fight and quarrel. You do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures. 4 You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.

Clearly this passage exposes the impact of pride. As we look personally, or if we expand to a global view, we cannot deny the negative impact of pride. Look at the question James asks in verse 1. What is the source of quarrels and conflicts in our life?

An honest assessment will likely reveal it is pride. The proud always want their way. We always want to be right, and when we think we are right we are not quick to abandon our position, and in so doing allowing another to have the high ground of being right. The truth is it is embarrassing to be shown we are wrong, or misinformed, it is frustrating not always getting our way or winning.  As a result, the prideful person becomes quarrelsome or picks a fight rather than admitting they were wrong, misinformed or lost the contest.

The story of Cain and Abel illustrate this principle as outlined in verse 2-3.

Genesis 4:3-8 NLT  3 The day came when Cain brought a gift of the fruit of the ground to the Lord. 4 But Abel brought a gift of the first-born of his flocks and of the fat parts. The Lord showed favor to Abel and his gift. 5 But He had no respect for Cain and his gift. So Cain became very angry and his face became sad. 6 Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? And why are you looking down? 7 Will not your face be happy if you do well? If you do not do well, sin is waiting to destroy you. Its desire is to rule over you, but you must rule over it.”

8 Cain told this to his brother Abel. And when they were in the field, Cain stood up against his brother Abel and killed him.

 Cain brought an offering of his labor; he was proud of the produce. Abel brought an offering from the flock and God accepted it, while rejecting Cain’s. What did Cain do? He killed his brother. Why? It seems like an overreaction. However, his pride, his need for acceptance and approval fueled the murderous rage which resulted in his brother’s death.

James exposes the impact of pride even in our prayer life. Too often we fail to receive from the Lord because we fail to ask for help. Additionally, he states wrong motives are often behind our requests.  Have you ever analyzed why you are asking for something? What is your motive? According to James, too often the motive is self. I believe selfish pleasure is crouching at the door of our heart craving validation and expression. But God loves us too much to give us what will harm us.

Several years ago, I experienced the impact of pride in the simple, but powerful lesson. I was riding my bike on a well-travelled bike trail when I had a flat tire. As I started working on my bike, I had multiple other bike riders ask if I needed help. I declined each offer thinking I could easily handle the situation. After all, I have changed many flat bike tires over the years between my personal riding and that of my children as they grew up. Unfortunately, even using my tire tools, I could not get the tire back on the rim. After struggling with the tire for over 30 minutes, a young man who was one of the first to offer help, returned and asked the second time if I needed help. This time my pride was gone, and I readily accepted his kind offer. It took both of us working together to get the tire mounted back on the rim and aired up so I could continue my ride.

In verse 4 James says friendship with the world is hostility towards God. He equates it with an adulterous relationship. When pride is the motivation of our life, we find ourselves living in opposition to the Lord. NOTE: James says it way; Therefore, whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 8

Heavenly Wisdom -vs- Earthly Wisdom

As we continue to work our way through the Epistle of James, we remember some have called it the Book of Proverbs for the New Testament. It certainly contains practical truths for Christlike living no matter the period of time in which you live.

Today, we continue to work our way through chapter 3, as James shows the stark contrast between Heavenly wisdom and Earthly wisdom. All one has to do is take a good look at society to see just how much we need Heavenly wisdom.

James 3:13 – 18

13 Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, free of hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

James begins with a question; Who among you is wise and understanding? These are important questions to deal with at the beginning of the teaching on wisdom. Let’s look at the question ourselves. Let’s begin by defining wise. In the Greek it means, skilled. The word understanding means knowing. Those who know and understand and are skillful in the application of what they know, are instructed to live lives which are in agreement with what they know and understand. In other words, their works and words are in agreement. Because there is agreement between their skill and understanding, there is a gentleness which is the evidence of their wisdom.

Conversely, bitter jealousy and selfish ambition, which is evidenced by the motives of the heart, lie against the truth. These characteristics are evidence of earthly, natural, demonic wisdom which manifests itself in jealousy, selfish ambition, disorder and every evil thing.  

This is where our world is today. Wrong is now considered right, and right is now considered wrong. We have normalized rebellion, and sin, and as a result have a nation of confused and lost people. The truths James shared in his letter to the early church speak volumes to our social, political and spiritual situation today. In fact, I would go as far as to say, the abandonment of Heavenly wisdom is leading us down a pathway of destruction.

Let’s remember the words of Solomon from Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seems right to a person, but its end is the way of death.

Look at the last two verses of chapter 3. Verse 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, free of hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

For too long we have drunk from the cesspool of earthly wisdom and show the effects both in the world and in the church.

Let us make this our prayer; Lord let your wisdom transform us that we may be purified from all that is earthly, reflecting the beauty of Jesus to those around us. Let us reflect his peace, love, gentleness and mercy, being impartial, reasonable and free from hypocrisy. May we sow the fruit of righteousness in peace that Jesus alone may receive all glory and praise. Amen.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 7

Danger of the Untamed Tongue

As we begin looking at James 3 we want to remember in chapter 2 James said; “Faith without works is dead.” This is especially important as James addresses the issue of accountability. Specifically, he addresses the responsibility of being a teacher, and the accountability for our words.

James 3:1 – 12  1 Do not become teachers in large numbers, my brothers, since you know that we who are teachers will incur a [a]stricter judgment. 2 For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in [b]what he says, he is a perfect man, able to [c]rein in the whole body as well. 3 Now if we put the bits into the horses’ mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their whole body as well. 4 Look at the ships too: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are nevertheless directed by a very small rudder wherever the inclination of the pilot determines. 5 So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things.

See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! 6 And the tongue is a fire, the very world of unrighteousness; the tongue is set among our body’s parts as that which defiles the whole body and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell. 7 For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. 8 But no one among mankind can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people, who have been made in the likeness of God; 10 from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brothers and sisters, these things should not be this way. 11 Does a spring send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water? 12 Can a fig tree, my brothers and sisters, bear olives, or a vine bear figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh.

It seems natural when we have been taught well by others, that we want to pass on the information we have received so others may benefit from what we have learned. In fact, there was, years ago, an evangelism strategy which used the phrase; Each one reach one, each one teach one. However, James warns against many teachers in the Body of Christ. The warning is based on the danger of having faith without works. Or we might say, knowledge without practical application. The reason for the warning is the accountability which comes with being a teacher. James positions himself as a teacher as he gives this admonition. Note verse 2 states that “all” make many mistakes and indicates the source of the mistakes are the result of misspeaking.

No doubt growing up we all heard the old expression; “Sticks and stones may break some bones, but word will never harm you.” The fact is this is false. Words are powerful and can be very harmful. Because of that, James admonishes us to control our tongues stating if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could control ourselves in every other way.

As a good teacher, James illustrates the power of the tongue by using several analogies drawn from daily living.

1 The horse and the bit

2 The ship and the rudder

3 The spark and the forest fire

We easily understand what James is saying as we are most likely familiar with one or all of the illustrations. In each illustration, the small item, whether the bit, the rudder or the spark has tremendous power. If used properly there is great potential for good. However, if used improperly, or abused, the results will be disastrous.  

As we look at verses 7 – 12 James gets to the heart of the matter.

Even though we have the knowledge to train all kinds of animals, the tongue is untamable.

It is described as restless, evil and full of deadly poison.

Sometimes it praises the Heavenly Father, sometimes it curses those who are made in the image of God.

Blessing and cursing comes out of the same mouth, and as James states emphatically, “…this is not right!”

You can’t have it both ways. A spring of water doesn’t bring forth both sweet and bitter water. A fig tree can’t produce olives, and a grapevine can’t produce figs. Neither can you draw fresh water from a salty spring.

It almost seems James has pointed out a problem without providing a solution. So, what are we to do? Let me close with a couple of Scripture verses which speak to this matter.

Luke 6:45

The good person out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil person out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.

Psalm 19:14

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart

Be acceptable in Your sight, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.

Proverbs 25:11

Like apples of gold in settings of silver, Is a word spoken at the proper time.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 6

As we continue to look at the letter James wrote to the Early Church, let me remind you of the contextual setting as is recorded in the Book of Acts. Following the birth of the church there was a period of explosive growth with thousands coming to faith. The followers of Christ were still living and worshipping in Jerusalem. James, the author of this letter was the leader of the Jerusalem church. Following the stoning of Stephan, one of the first deacons of the church, and the first martyr, there arose persecution of the church resulting in many believers fleeing Jerusalem to the surrounding regions and nations. As the pastor of the Jerusalem church, James had a burden for those who fled the persecution and wrote this letter of encouragement.

James 2:14-26 - 14 What use is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone says he has faith, but he has no works? Can [j]that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, [k]be warmed and be filled,” yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? 17 In the same way, faith also, if it has no works, is [l]dead, being by itself.

18 But someone [m]may well say, “You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” 19 You believe that [n]God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder. 20 But are you willing to acknowledge, you foolish person, that faith without works is useless? 21 Was our father Abraham not justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that faith was working with his works, and [o]as a result of the works, faith was [p]perfected; 23 and the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “And Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called a friend of God. 24 You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. 25 In the same way, was Rahab the prostitute not justified by works also when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? 26 For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.

This passage of Scripture has been the source of disagreement among theologians throughout the ages. The reason being that it seems to contradict the teachings of the Apostle Paul regarding faith. In Ephesians 2:8-9 the Apostle Paul wrote 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and [a]this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Yet here in this passage James declares faith without works is dead.  Because of this seeming contradiction Martin Luther called the Epistle of James an Epistle of Straw.

However, there is no contradiction. James discusses two types of faith in this passage, a dead faith, and a saving faith.

Saving faith is much more than a profession or empty words, it is not just the acceptance of a creed. Saving faith produces a life of obedience.

Let’s look closer at this passage. James begins with a question in verse 14 What use is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone says he has faith, but he has no works? Can [j]that faith save him? Then in verses 15 – 17 he presents a scenario which answers the question.  15 If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, [k]be warmed and be filled,” yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? 17 In the same way, faith also, if it has no works, is [l]dead, being by itself.

This echoes the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 25:31-46 - 31 “But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. 32 And all the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, just as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; 33 and He will put the sheep on His right, but the goats on the left.

34 “Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35 For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; 36 naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.’ 37 Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? 38 And when did we see You as a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? 39 And when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it for one of the least of these brothers or sisters of Mine, you did it for Me.’

41 “Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, you accursed people, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels; 42 for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink; 43 I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.’ 44 Then they themselves also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or as a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not [i]take care of You?’ 45 Then He will answer them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it for one of the least of these, you did not do it for Me, either.’ 46 These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

In other words, there needs to be agreement between what we profess and what we practice.

In verse 19 James shows the emptiness of simply declaring you believe in God. (Which in itself is a good thing, as it is the beginning of faith according to Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.) Even the demons believe there is one God and tremble. But faith without action is dead.

James gives us two examples from the Old Testament showing there is a synergy between faith and works.

First James points to Abraham who was declared righteous when He believed God regarding having an heir.  Genesis 15:4-6  4 Then behold, the word of the Lord came to him, saying, “This man will not be your heir; but one who will come from your own [a]body shall be your heir.” 5 And He took him outside and said, “Now look toward the heavens and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” And He said to him, “So shall your [b]descendants be.” 6 Then he believed in the Lord; and He [c]credited it to him as righteousness.

However, he was justified by works when he offered Isaac on the altar. There is a beautiful harmony or synergy between vertical faith in God and horizontal works to a world in need.

Secondly, James uses Rahab the prostitute as an example of one whose faith was supported by her works. The Book of Joshua chapter 2 details her faith and works which resulted in the salvation of her household.

I close today by reminding the listeners of the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:16 16 Your light must shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 5

As we continue to look at the letter James wrote to the Early Church, let me remind you of the contextual setting as is recorded in the Book of Acts. Following the birth of the church there was a period of explosive growth with thousands coming to faith. The followers of Christ were still living and worshipping in Jerusalem. James, the author of this letter was the leader of the Jerusalem church. Following the stoning of Stephan, one of the first deacons of the church, and the first martyr, there arose persecution of the church resulting in many believers fleeing Jerusalem to the surrounding regions and nations. As the pastor of the Jerusalem church, James had a burden for those who fled the persecution and wrote this letter of encouragement.

With that background, let's now consider the encouragement and instruction given to these early members of the church. As we do so, let's glean truths which are applicable for the believers today as we begin chapter 2 of this epistle.

James 2:1-13 My brothers and sisters, do not hold your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism. 2 For if a man comes into your [a]assembly with a gold ring and is dressed in bright clothes, and a poor man in dirty clothes also comes in, 3 and you [b]pay special attention to the one who is wearing the bright clothes, and say, “You sit here in a good place,” and you say to the poor man, “You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool,” 4 have you not made distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil [c]motives? 5 Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters: did God not choose the poor [d]of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? 6 But you have dishonored the poor man. Is it not the rich who oppress you and [e]personally drag you into [f]court? 7 Do they not blaspheme the good name [g]by which you have been called?

8 If, however, you are fulfilling the [h]royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well. 9 But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the Law as violators. 10 For whoever keeps the whole Law, yet stumbles in one point, has become guilty of all. 11 For He who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” Now if you do not commit adultery, but do murder, you have become a violator of the Law. 12 So speak, and so act, as those who are to be judged by the law of freedom. 13 For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy [i]triumphs over judgment.

James identifies the recipients of the letter as he addresses himself to both the men and the women who were part of the early church. In this segment of his letter, he speaks to an issue which has been a problem in society for ages, the problem of favoritism. The favoritism he addresses is based on one’s appearance and perceived social standing. This was an issue which Jesus also faced as people took him to task for associating with people of “low reputation.”

Matthew 9:10-13 10 Then it happened that as [e]Jesus was reclining at the table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and [f]sinners came and began dining with Jesus and His disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, “Why is your Teacher eating with the tax collectors and sinners?” 12 But when Jesus heard this, He said, “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. 13 Now go and learn [g]what this means: ‘I desire [h]compassion, [i]rather than sacrifice,’ for I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Luke 7:36-39 36 Now one of the Pharisees was requesting Him to eat with him, and He entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. 37 And there was a woman in the city who was a [w]sinner; and when she learned that He was reclining at the table in the Pharisee’s house, she brought an alabaster vial of perfume, 38 and standing behind Him at His feet, weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears, and she wiped them with the hair of her head, and began kissing His feet and anointing them with the perfume. 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet He would know who and what sort of person this woman is who is touching Him, that she is a [x]sinner!”

Luke 15:1-2 Now all the tax collectors and [a]sinners were coming near [b]Jesus to listen to Him. 2 And both the Pharisees and the scribes began to complain, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.”

Luke 19:5-7  5 And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to him, “Zaccheus, hurry and come down, for today I must stay at your house.” 6 And he hurried and came down, and received Him [c]joyfully. 7 When the people saw this, they all began to complain, saying, “He has gone in [d]to be the guest of a man who is a sinner!”

As James points out in this passage, the favoritism was based on “judgement” based on appearance. Too often the attention one receives is based on the outward appearance. People are drawn to those they perceive can elevate their “social standing,” or open the door of opportunity to a different group of associates.

I would love to tell you that everyone who comes to church has a genuine desire to find love, acceptance and forgiveness in the fellowship of the Body of Christ. Unfortunately, I have witnessed over the years, those who looked at the Body of Christ as an opportunity to conduct business, with the congregation being a pool of potential customers. Sadly, I have witnessed, as James warned the early church, those who came in with great flourish and fanfare, turn on the very people they exploited once they could no longer benefit from the association.

Conversely, some of the most wise, compassionate, Christlike people I’ve met in the church were those who did not attract attention to themselves by their dress and social status. They may not have been rich in the wealth of the world, but were rich in the knowledge, and application of the word, and practical wisdom for daily living. The love they had for people was not based on a desire to climb the social ladder, rather it was based on their desire to elevate the lives of others through the transforming grace of God.

One of the men who had a profound impact on me as I was growing up was a man I knew as Brother Smiley. He was the church custodian and was often found in the church doing the routine custodial work, sweeping and mopping the floors, vacuuming the sanctuary, straightening out the hymnals in the pews, picking up the bulletins and papers which were left behind after the service, emptying the waste baskets, Etc. He was a humble man who loved Jesus with all his heart and loved the Scriptures. There was nothing about him which would draw the attention of others. He was also my 5th grade Sunday School teacher. His love of the Scriptures, and ability to teach the lessons, captured the hearts and minds, of a room full of 5th grade boys. He was one of the most influential people in my spiritual journey.

When I think of what James is teaching here it comes down to a simple point, favoritism is sin. Therefore, it is unacceptable in the Body of Christ.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 4

Hearing and Doing the Word

As we continue to look at the letter James wrote to the Early Church, let me remind you of the contextual setting as is recorded in the Book of Acts. Following the birth of the church there was a period of explosive growth with thousands coming to faith. The followers of Christ were still living and worshipping in Jerusalem. James, the author of this letter was the leader of the Jerusalem church. Following the stoning of Stephen, one of the first deacons of the church, and the first martyr, there arose persecution of the church resulting in many believers fleeing Jerusalem to the surrounding regions and nations. As the pastor of the Jerusalem church, James had a burden for those who fled the persecution and wrote this letter of encouragement.

With that background, let's now consider the encouragement and instruction given to these early members of the church. As we do so, let's glean truths which are applicable for the believers today.

I hope these devotional studies have been helpful to the listener as we have opened up this epistle. As I stated in the introductory podcast, the Epistle of James is called the Proverbs of the New Testament, as James communicated the practical application of faith to the early church.  I especially like the instruction contained in the passage at which we are looking today.

James 1:19-27 (NASB)

19  This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger;  20  for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God. 21  Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. 22  But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. 23  For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror;

24  for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. 25  But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does.

26  If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless. 27  Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.

This passage is not a new truth James was teaching; rather it is a reminder of a known truth. A truth we also know, but is often difficult to apply to our lives.

Good communication is essential to good relationships. This is true of relationships in the church, as well as in the community and in our families. One of the biggest hindrances to good communication is the neglect of the first principle James states in verse 19...everyone must be quick to hear. Just think about how many times in your life the failure to hear what was being said led to conflict.

Early in my ministry I had a gentleman in the congregation who took it upon himself to be my antagonist. It didn't matter what I did or said, it seemed he took the opposing position to my leadership, only to come back later to agree with me. (One day I asked him why he did this and he said; "I want you to work for everything you want as pastor." ) During one of these episodes of opposition, we attended a Valentines Banquet, and happened to meet at the dessert table following the main course. I asked him how he was doing and was shocked by what I heard as his response which was, "I would feel a lot better if I could belt ya." As I returned to my table I could barely contain my anger. Frankly I was totally fed up with him and his behavior and decided as soon as the banquet was over I was going to invite him to take his best shot at belting me. As my anger continued to rise I began to fantasize how good it was going to be to give this man the beat down of his life, and by the time the banquet was over I was primed and ready to go. Following the banquet, I pushed through the crowd to this man, and said to him; "What exactly do you mean, you would feel a lot better if you could belt me?" He looked at me with bewilderment on his face and said, "I didn't say I would feel better if I could belt ya, I said I would feel better if I could belch." Needless to say, I was embarrassed beyond words at my misunderstanding of what was said, as well as my angry response.

Be quick to hear...listen with the ears, the heart, and the spirit.

Be slow to speak...focus on what is being said, rather than on what you are going to say. Once you begin to formulate your response you stop listening.

Be slow to anger... too often the angry reply is a reaction instead of a response. In verse 20 James declares the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.

James calls the believers to put off filthiness and wickedness and in humility receive the implanted word which is able to save your souls. However, he admonishes the early believers, not just to hear the word, but to do the word as well. It is the demonstration of the authenticity of the faith which is professed. And it is a call to establish the word in your heart and life.

Studies have been done regarding teaching and retention rates and the Learning Pyramid was created by the National Training Laboratories. It examined the 7 common methods of teaching and found the follow:

5% - Lecture

10% - Reading

20% - Audio-Visual

30% - Demonstration

50% - Discussion

75% - Practice Doing

90% - Teaching others.

Apply this to what James says to the early church. It is a powerful truth. We must guard against being a "spectator" church; rather we must be doers and teachers of the Word of God.

James closes out chapter one with instruction for practical application. Watch what you say, you can't talk your way into the kingdom of God. Rather, walk your talk.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 3

Trials and Temptations

As we continue to look at the letter James wrote to the Early Church, let me remind you of the contextual setting as is recorded in the Book of Acts. Following the birth of the church there was a period of explosive growth with thousands coming to faith. The followers of Christ were still living and worshipping in Jerusalem. James, the author of this letter was the leader of the Jerusalem church. Following the stoning of Stephen, one of the first deacons of the church, and the first martyr, there arose persecution of the church resulting in many believers fleeing Jerusalem to the surrounding regions and nations. As the pastor of the Jerusalem church, James had a burden for those who fled the persecution and wrote this letter of encouragement.

With that background, let's now consider the encouragement and instruction given to these early members of the church. As we do so, let's glean truths which are applicable for the believers today.

James 1:12-18 (NASB)

12  Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13  Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14  But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust.

15  Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. 16  Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17  Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. 18  In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures.

As we begin this week’s devotion, we find ourselves returning to the theme of trials James addressed in verses 2 - 5. The fact is all of us endure seasons of trials and temptations in this life. It is important that we understand the fact that we experience trials or temptations does not indicate there is a flaw or defect in our faith. The Apostle Paul said - 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NASB)

13  No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.

Since God, our Father knows our frame, remembering that we are dust, Psalm 103, and since trials are to be endured, and overcome, and since the Crown of Life is awarded those who pass the trials, let us remember, God is the One who gives us strength, and is our Deliverer from the trials of life.

We of course want to know why we are tried or tempted. Some have said the Lord sent the trial or the temptation their way to "test" them. However, that is contrary to what the Scripture teaches. James reminds the church which was scattered among the nations that God cannot be tempted by evil, and that He does not tempt anyone. We need to remind ourselves of this today, as we are inundated with temptations everyday.

If God is not the source of the temptation, then where does it originate? First, I would remind the listener Satan is the tempter. He tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden, and he tempted Jesus in the wilderness. However, we must take responsibility for ourselves regarding the matter of temptation. According to James, each one, (not just a few but all), is carried away and enticed by his own lust.

Temptation begins as a thought, when the thought is allowed to grow in our mind and heart, it moves from being a thought to an action which is sin, which then leads to death.

Illustration: David and Bathsheba -

One of my college professors illustrated this passage from James by saying: "You can't keep a bird from flying over your head, but you can stop it from building a nest in your hair.

James warns the believer not to be deceived. The Apostle Paul used the same words as he instructed the believers in Galatians 6:7 (NASB) 7  Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap.

 In James 1:17-18 James affirms some wonderful truths for the early church, truths we can hold onto today.

Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.

In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures. God has a plan for the believers of the early church. Even though the way for them was difficult, his plan was realized. As a result we are here today, and the plan continues to unfold, as we join the multitude of believers who stand in faith.

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 2

Rich and Poor

As we continue to look at the letter James wrote to the Early Church, let me remind you of the contextual setting as is recorded in the Book of Acts. Following the birth of the church there was a period of explosive growth with thousands coming to faith. The followers of Christ were still living and worshipping in Jerusalem. James, the author of this letter was the leader of the Jerusalem church. Following the stoning of Stephen, one of the first deacons of the church, and the first martyr, there arose persecution of the church resulting in many believers fleeing Jerusalem to the surrounding regions and nations. As the pastor of the Jerusalem church, James had a burden for those who fled the persecution and wrote this letter of encouragement.

With that background, let's now consider the encouragement and instruction given to these early members of the church. As we do so, let's glean truths which are applicable for the believers today.

James 1:9-11 (NASB)

9  But the brother of humble circumstances is to glory in his high position; 10  and the rich man is to glory in his humiliation, because like flowering grass he will pass away. 11  For the sun rises with a scorching wind and withers the grass; and its flower falls off and the beauty of its appearance is destroyed; so too the rich man in the midst of his pursuits will fade away.

As we journey through life, many people experience opportunities to change their circumstances. We are inspired by the stories of individuals who have gone from rags to riches. No doubt we have all dreamed how much different life would be, or might have been, if only we had the resources. At the same time we have been repulsed by privilege afforded those in high positions who have broken the law or flaunted it with seeming impunity because of their wealth.

Today’s devotion provides the listener with a valuable lesson for living, and reminds us death is a great leveler.

In my career as a pastor I had the opportunity to live in several communities around the nation. Each community had its customs, traditions and influencers. Each congregation I served also had its customs, traditions and influencers. No doubt, the early church, as it was dispersed among the nations found the same to be true, and James addressed this in these verses. It was my experience that it was important to identify the influencers in a congregation and community, realizing they were either going to be an asset or liability. The danger is to assume that wealth is power and to think the level of influence one has is relative to their financial status. Nothing could be further from the truth, and James reminds the church of this truth..

Note James's assessment of the poor and wealthy.

The brother of humble circumstances has the high position

The rich man has humiliation.

That flies in the face of our conventional wisdom doesn't it? Our society would say the rich man has the high position and the brother of humble circumstances is the one with humiliation. However, in the economy of Heaven, earthly wealth is of no importance. Jesus died for both the poor and the rich. Faith in Christ is what secures our hope in Heaven. According to the Apostle Paul, in Colossians 3:11 Christ has broken down the dividing walls which separate us in society. The wealth of this world can be lost as quickly as the beauty of the flower in a scorching wind.

The day will come when we all pass away. When we stand before the Lord, his question will not be whether you were rich or poor, rather it will be did you put your faith in Jesus Christ, His Son, our Lord?

Devotional Thoughts | James Pt. 1

Faith & Trials

As we begin to look at the letter James wrote to the Early Church, let me remind you of the contextual setting as is recorded in the Book of Acts. Following the birth of the church there was a period of explosive growth with thousands coming to faith. The followers of Christ were still living and worshipping in Jerusalem. James, the author of this letter was the leader of the Jerusalem church. Following the stoning of Stephen, one of the first deacons of the church, and the first martyr, there arose persecution of the church resulting in many believers fleeing Jerusalem to the surrounding regions and nations. As the pastor of the Jerusalem church, James had a burden for those who fled the persecution and wrote this letter of encouragement.

With that background, let's now consider the encouragement and instruction given to these early members of the church. As we do so, let's glean truths which are applicable for the believers today.

James 1:2-8  (NASB)

2  Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3  knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.

4  And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

5  But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

6  But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.

7  For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, 8  being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

Imagine, if you can, what it was like for the early believers to try and integrate into a different society.  Can you imagine what it would be like to learn a new culture and customs, perhaps learning a new language or dialect? Can you fathom what it would have been like practicing a faith or belief system which may have stood in radical opposition to the religious practices of the communities where they settled?

In my mind, the early believers faced many challenges and hardships. Apparently, James also understood this and begins this letter with words of encouragement and a call to faith. Perspective is encouraged - Consider it all joy when you encounter various trials... another translation says, Consider it great joy... the fact is we don't usually recognize hardship or trials as occasions for joy. We reserve joyous expressions for weddings, the birth of a baby, reunions of families and friends, etc. However, James in establishing perspective called for a big picture view rather than allowing for a myopic or short sighted view of the various trials of life.

Note: What was being tested? Their faith. Ask yourself, what is being tested in your life when you face hardship or trials? Is it not your faith too?

In calling the believer to maintain a big picture perspective, James also reminds them they are going through a process. While it is possible to gain some knowledge through study, there are some things in life which are known only by going through the process of doing. Unfortunately, in our instant gratification society we often feel the inconvenience, or the uncomfortableness of our situation and look for a shortcut out of our trials. While it may seem like the best option, too often, we are depriving ourselves of an opportunity of building endurance in the process of life by short cycling the trial.  

One thing which is necessary as we navigate the trials of life is wisdom. It is essential we discern when we are going through a trial which is working for our benefit, or when it is a situation to be avoided. Frankly this can be challenging and leads us to the practical solution of asking God for wisdom. Note: we ask in faith, without doubting, with the full expectation that God who is generous will give the wisdom needed.

In the big picture view, encouraged by James, the cause for great joy is the perfection or completeness of faith which is the result of the trial. This truth is also echoed by the Apostle Peter in chapter 1 of his letter to the early church.

1 Peter 1:3-9 (NASB)

3  Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4  to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5  who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6  In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 7  so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.

Devotional Thoughts | Intro to James

I love the book of James as it provides a practical guide to living a godly life. It draws a distinct line between talking about being a Christ follower and being a Christ follower. As a young Christian, I found this letter to be a source of great encouragement and strength. In the next few months, we will be working our way through the great truths recorded in this epistle.

Whenever one studies any of the epistles in the Bible, it is important to remember, we are reading someone else’s mail. This establishes the context of what was written. It provides us with a basis for understanding the truths which are applicable for us today.

The letter was written between AD 48-62, by James, who identifies himself as a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ and is addressed to the twelve tribes which were scattered abroad. Tradition identifies James as the brother of Jesus, who became the leader of the church in Jerusalem at an early date.

Following the stoning of Stephen in Acts 8, the church was greatly persecuted. As a result, the believers in Jerusalem scattered abroad. Nevertheless, James as the leader of the church had great concern for the wellbeing of those who had fled the persecution. Understanding their circumstances, James addresses some very practical issues in this letter to the church. In the upcoming devotions, we will discover how these truths apply to our lives:

• Faith and Trials

• Rich and Poor

• Trials and Temptation

• Hearing and Doing the Word

• Favoritism Warning

• Living Faith -vs- Dead Faith

• Danger of the Untamed Tongue

• Heavenly Wisdom -vs-Earthly Wisdom

• Impact of Pride

• Power of Humility

• No Judgement Here

• Put God in Charge of Your Plans

• Rich Oppressors Beware

• Patience and Perseverance

• Meeting Specific Needs

In my study of this epistle and the historical background, an unnamed contributor summarized the letter in a simple but profound way stating: “The message of James speaks especially to those who are inclined to talk their way to heaven instead of walk their way there.”

My hope is these devotions will remind us works without faith, and faith without works are both useless. However, when faith and works are combined, we are compelled to move from a backside in the pew religion to a boots on the ground relationship with the Lord and the world in which we live. I’m really excited to share the journey of discovery with you.

Devotional Thoughts | O Worship the King

Several weeks ago I mentioned I often read the hymns of the church devotionally. I find them to be a great source of inspiration as they extol the majesty and glory of the Lord, or as they affirm the faithfulness of the Lord as we face the challenges of life. 

Today I want to share one of the many hymns which has spoken to me. O
WORSHIP THE KING.  Lyrics by Robert Grant (1780 - 1838) This hymn is based
on a free paraphrase of Psalm 104:1-13, 24-33. As I read these lyrics listen
for... 

The call to worship
The declaration of the attributes of the Lord
The affirmation of the care and provision the Lord lavishes on us
The dimensions of God’s relationship with his creation. 

 1. O worship the King, all glorious above,
O gratefully sing God's power and God's love;
our Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days,
pavilioned in splendor, and girded with praise.

2. O tell of God's might, O sing of God's grace,
whose robe is the light, whose canopy space,
whose chariots of wrath the deep thunderclouds form,
and dark is God's path on the wings of the storm.

3. The earth with its store of wonders untold,
Almighty, thy power hath founded of old;
hath stablished it fast by a changeless decree,
and round it hath cast, like a mantle, the sea.

4. Thy bountiful care, what tongue can recite?
It breathes in the air, it shines in the light;
it streams from the hills, it descends to the plain,
and sweetly distills in the dew and the rain.

5. Frail children of dust, and feeble as frail,
in thee do we trust, nor find thee to fail;
thy mercies how tender, how firm to the end,
our Maker, Defender, Redeemer, and Friend.

I pray you are encouraged today by the lyrics of this beautiful hymn.

Devotional Thoughts | Love Pt. 2

Finish this phrase with an adjective, Love is…

Motivational

1 Cor. 13:1-8 If I had the gift of being able to speak in other languages without learning them and could speak in every language there is in all of heaven and earth, but didn't love others, I would only be making noise. 2If I had the gift of prophecy and knew all about what is going to happen in the future, knew everything about everything, but didn't love others, what good would it do? Even if I had the gift of faith so that I could speak to a mountain and make it move, I would still be worth nothing at all without love. 3If I gave everything I have to poor people, and if I were burned alive for preaching the Gospel but didn't love others, it would be of no value whatever.

4Love is very patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud, 5never haughty or selfish or rude. Love does not demand its own way. It is not irritable or touchy. It does not hold grudges and will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. 6It is never glad about injustice, but rejoices whenever truth wins out. 7If you love someone, you will be loyal to him no matter what the cost. You will always believe in him, always expect the best of him, and always stand your ground in defending him.

8All the special gifts and powers from God will someday come to an end, but love goes on forever. Someday prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge--these gifts will disappear.  [Living]

Relational

Philip. 2:1-2 Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, 2fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.  [NKJV]

The fulfillment of the law Matthew 22:37 Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

The evidence you are a follower of God 1 John 3:16 By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17 But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?

18 My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. 19 And by this we [d]know that we are of the truth, and shall [e]assure our hearts before Him. 20 For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things. 21 Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. 22 And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. 23 And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as He gave [f]us commandment.

Love is God. 1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 8 He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 9 In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. 10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

Devotional Thoughts | Love Pt. 1

Love Is...

February is now here. Of course, when we think of February we also think of Valentine’s day, a day when romantic love walks onto center stage and is given full expression. Cards, love letters, poems, gifts of flowers, candy, intimate wear, will be given over fine meals, soft candlelight and music, passing from heart to hand as we celebrate “love.”

But in the midst of this hubbub, we need to know what we are celebrating? What is love? For most people it will be the celebration of a feeling. A good feeling, a warm fuzzy sentimental feeling that is elusive, difficult to find, and impossible to hold. At least that is what we are told, and if that feeling passes, oh well, we again begin the pursuit of love. 

I’m convinced many people are hurting today because they have given this thing called love a whirl and have been hurt, even devastated by it. Today these people are as jaded or cynical about love as Ebenezer Scrooge was about Christmas. 

I believe this is due to the poverty of the English language when it comes to “Love.” We use the same word to express our feelings about many things. This leads to confusion and misunderstanding.

 Eros – sexual love, passion

Storge – love of kin

Philio – love of friends, brotherly love

Agapeo – love which seeks the highest good of another regardless of the personal cost. It is the highest expression of love. God’s love.

I believe when we make the highest expression of love our goal, then we excel in every area of love.

Finish this phrase with an adjective, Love is… (You cannot use the obvious answers of 1 Corinthians 13)

Intentional

Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.  [NKJV]

It is a decision, a choice.

Sacrificial

John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends.  [NKJV]

1 John 3:16 By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.  [NKJV]

Love gives and does not count the cost to be too great. If you are working an “angle” it isn’t love.

Unconditional

1 John 4:9-11 God showed how much he loved us by sending his only Son into this wicked world to bring to us eternal life through his death. 10In this act we see what real love is: it is not our love for God but his love for us when he sent his Son to satisfy God's anger against our sins.

11Dear friends, since God loved us as much as that, we surely ought to love each other too.  [Living]

Love isn’t based on performance, appearance.

Inseparable

Romans 8:35-39

Who then can ever keep Christ's love from us? When we have trouble or calamity, when we are hunted down or destroyed, is it because he doesn't love us anymore? And if we are hungry or penniless or in danger or threatened with death, has God deserted us?

36No, for the Scriptures tell us that for his sake we must be ready to face death at every moment of the day--we are like sheep awaiting slaughter; 37but despite all this, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ who loved us enough to die for us. 38For I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from his love. Death can't, and life can't. The angels won't, and all the powers of hell itself cannot keep God's love away. Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, 39or where we are--high above the sky, or in the deepest ocean--nothing will ever be able to separate us from the love of God demonstrated by our Lord Jesus Christ when he died for us.  [Living]

Looking at this list of life events, what can separate love.

Devotional Thoughts | Treasures of the Heart

When I say the word treasure, what comes to your mind?

Perhaps you think of a chest filled with gold, precious jewels. Perhaps you think of a priceless artifact retrieved from the bottom of the ocean. Perhaps you think of a family heirloom which you greatly prize or a prized possession of a loved one which has been passed on to you. The word Treasure is synonymous with resources, riches, reserves, materials, assets, possessions.

I love to watch the Antique Road Show, it is amazing the treasures people have and don't realize it. The other day I was watching, and a lady had a painting in her attic which had an estimated value of $300,000.00.

We all love treasure hunting, don't we? Whether it is the prize in a box of Cracker Jacks, or a safe deposit box filled with cash, stocks, and gold we look forward to the discovery of treasure. Illustration: Al Capone’s Vault

Read Text:Luke 6:45 (NKJV)  

A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

1. What is "good treasure?"

We might say the good treasure is the fruit of the Holy Spirit resident in our heart. Galatians 5:22  Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, meekness, faithfulness, goodness, self – control.

2. What is "evil treasure?"

Paul on several occasions lists what I'm calling "evil treasure." These are the works of sin in our flesh. They stand as the antithesis of the good treasure. Galatians 5:19-21 (NLT)  

When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, your lives will produce these evil results: sexual immorality, impure thoughts, eagerness for lustful pleasure, 20idolatry, participation in demonic activities, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, divisions, the feeling that everyone is wrong except those in your own little group, 21envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other kinds of sin. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.

3. What are the treasures of your heart?

Listen to your words, they reveal the content of the heart.

What do you value most… replay your conversations of the past week and you will have a clear picture of your heart’s treasure. Look at your checkbook it will also give you a very clear picture of the treasures of your heart. Matthew 6:21 (NKJV)  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

I conclude today by calling each of you to do a heart check. Jesus calls us to live a Spirit filled life, to walk in the authority and power of His Word. He calls us to be overcomers not victims, to be people of faith, not fear. When we fill our heart with His treasure, we become just that, even in the midst of less than ideal circumstances. Let’s get the fear and anger out. Let’s stop blaming others for our “issues” and let’s fill our hearts with His treasure.

Col. 3:1-17 (Msg)  

So if you're serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. 2Don't shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that's where the action is. See things from his perspective.

3Your old life is dead. Your new life, which is your real life—even though invisible to spectators—is with Christ in God. He is your life. 4When Christ (your real life, remember) shows up again on this earth, you'll show up, too—the real you, the glorious you. Meanwhile, be content with obscurity, like Christ.

5And that means killing off everything connected with that way of death: sexual promiscuity, impurity, lust, doing whatever you feel like whenever you feel like it, and grabbing whatever attracts your fancy. That's a life shaped by things and feelings instead of by God. 6It's because of this kind of thing that God is about to explode in anger. 7It wasn't long ago that you were doing all that stuff and not knowing any better. 8But you know better now, so make sure it's all gone for good: bad temper, irritability, meanness, profanity, dirty talk.

9Don't lie to one another. You're done with that old life. It's like a filthy set of ill-fitting clothes you've stripped off and put in the fire. 10Now you're dressed in a new wardrobe. Every item of your new way of life is custom-made by the Creator, with his label on it. All the old fashions are now obsolete. 11Words like Jewish and non-Jewish, religious and irreligious, insider and outsider, uncivilized and uncouth, slave and free, mean nothing. From now on everyone is defined by Christ, everyone is included in Christ.

12So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. 13Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. 14And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.

15Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. 16Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! 17Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way.