Jesus Loves Me: Experiencing God’s Heart for Kids Sample

True Religion

James describes “true religion” much differently than many people in our culture. He uses two examples. First, he explains it as “to look after orphans and widows.” God has special concern for those most vulnerable, those who fall at the margins of society who are often exploited. God claims to be the protector and James instructs us to follow His example.

Deuteronomy 10:18 says that God “executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing.” James reiterates that truth here and shares that the responsibility to care for widows and orphans is ours as well.

The second description of religion that God accepts is to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. He doesn’t say to remove ourselves from the world, but to not be polluted by the evil that is found there. James explains that true faith enters the culture, but keeps oneself free from being polluted by it.

What a joy to combine these two factors—to care for the widow and orphan and share the love of Jesus with them by our lifestyle. It is a tremendous blessing to love, serve, and protect the most vulnerable in this world and share the greatest Protector of all.

View photos of children in poverty who are celebrating a birthday today.