James: Wisdom From AboveSample

Words we hear as children can shape who we become. They can stay with us and influence our behavior for the rest of our lives. ‘You’ll never amount to anything,’ might become the driving force of someone desperate to prove themselves, or an excuse not to try. Words can change our lives.

James wants us to know how powerfully Jesus can change our lives. Jesus, the Word who became flesh, can transform our hearts. Like a seed planted in the ground to bring forth new life, Jesus was crucified and placed in a tomb. Because of Jesus, we can ‘put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.’ (James 1:21).

But don’t fool yourself. There is a big difference between hearing a word and having your life changed by it. Throughout his letter, James is keen for us to grasp this difference, contrasting a life transformed by Jesus with counterfeits. The end of chapter one gives us two examples of this.

First, we see there are doers of the word and those who only hear it. Seeds are planted to produce a harvest. The word is planted to change our lives and make us like Jesus. If our actions aren’t being affected by Jesus’ saving work at all, we are being challenged to end our complacency.

Second, James contrasts true religion with worthless religion. It’s another test for us to examine the presence of the word in our heart. Caring about those in need and responding to them in practical ways is a clue that we’re connecting with God. What comes out of our mouth is another clue to us about what’s in our heart. James warns us not to dismiss these things lightly, lest we deceive ourselves.

Reflection: How is Jesus changing your life? If you feel convicted that He isn’t, this is an opportunity to turn to God and ask Him for the help you need to be transformed. Remember, He gives without finding fault.