Daily EncouragementSample

James brings us down to the earth with his description of the religion which God accepts. Commentators hasten to tell us that his definition is not meant to be comprehensive. We take their point. The question is, can we take his? Are we actively engaged in looking after the distressed? John Blanchard tells us the primary meaning of “distress” is “suffering brought about by the pressure of circumstances.” So the need goes wider than “orphans and widows.” But we might begin with them, and search our hearts about those within our circle and influence. We hardly need reminding of God’s special concern for such people - “A father to the fatherless, and defender of widows is God in his holy dwelling” (Ps. 68:5). For “look after” the older versions have “visit.” It will include visiting, which is an activity which the judge of all the earth has on his heart (Matt. 25:36). Are we keeping ourselves from the world’s pollution? We may be aware of its pollution, but are we aware of how easily we become polluted? We have to do more than recognize its evils - permissiveness, pornography, materialism, antagonism to God’s order and holy law. We have to resist them and to set our hearts and minds on things above (Col. 3:1-2). The Word and prayer and the people of God will be involved.