James: Principles in Practiceਨਮੂਨਾ

Introduction to James.

Though James is Jesus' brother, he doesn't introduce himself as such. Instead, he shares his servanthood and devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ. James is a man of prayer and principles; he puts them into practice in his epistle. Most have referred to this book as the Proverbs of the New Testament. However, a thread runs throughout these chapters that reinforces the importance of faith in Action.

•When tempted,

•In Judgement,

•In Works,

•In Words,

•In Wisdom,

•In Dealings with the world and the system,

•In the Words Spoken Of Others,

•In Your View of Riches,

•In Patience,

Finally, in your Prayer and Confession.

You will encounter these principles in the coming days; may you reflect on your attitude towards them and seek faith in action.

Chapter 1

Patience in Temptation Verses (2-18)

When we consider the joy that is manifested in the heart of a believer, this joy typically isn't contingent on the descent into trials. However, James reveals another aspect of Christianity. It is through the trials we face that God perfects our patience. In our pursuit of Wisdom and knowledge of God, we are encouraged to pray and seek the Lord for such Wisdom, regardless of how much or how often we ask. The Lord won't shun your questions or scold you; instead, He promises to give of Himself and His Wisdom liberally.

There is one condition: you must ask in faith. To ask from any other posture is to assume that God may or may not hear or act. To vacillate between whether God will listen to or how He can act is a prayer that lacks confidence in a God who has proven faithful time and again. When you endure your trials, you are counted as blessed, and there is a reward—a crown of life—that awaits you.

Don't for one second compromise your beliefs in moments of temptation by believing that God is responsible. God will never tempt you with evil; instead, it is your own desires that draw you away from righteousness. If you stay too close to those desires, the enticement and persuasion will lead to sin. Do not err. Every good gift and every perfect gift are from the Lord.

The conduct of true religion (19-27)

God has created us with James 1:19 in mind; we have two ears to listen and one mouth to speak. We are to listen twice as carefully as we can before we speak. This process helps slow the growth of anger and prevents jumping to conclusions. Separate yourself from moral uncleanness that pollutes your heart; instead, receive with gentleness and humility the word God has planted within your heart, for it has the power to save. When you listen to God's word, listen with a wholehearted surrender that leads to Action.

You never deceive others when what you know is disconnected from what you do; only yourself. So, when you look in the mirror, you don't even recognize the person you are because of duplicity. When you examine the perfect law of Christ, there is freedom through grace that helps you practice what you've learned, which will bless your life. It's easy to forget what you don't practice. But what you practice, through what you hear, refines you. It doesn't matter how religious you seem; if you can't control your tongue, then your religion is empty.

To be pure and free from this world is to serve widows and those who can't repay you, and to keep yourself from loving the world.

Encouragement,

Whatever temptation you have faced, be encouraged, Christ has given you the power to overcome. If there are any blemishes in your life, from this world, seek the Lord for cleansing that you may have a Christ-centered religion that leads to you bearing fruit of the Holy Spirit and a joy that is rooted in Christ, despite the circumstances.

I have summarized chapter 1. Now, I encourage you to read this chapter, take notes, pray, and ask the Lord to illuminate these verses in your heart.

Be encouraged.