God responds to the prayers of those who place their trust in Him. The Bible teaches us that a prayer life without faith is of little benefit to us. James exhorts we should always pray to God, “…in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that … Read more
The marks of the Christian life involves daily confession and repentance. This is achieved through relationship with God and one another. Prayer that includes the ingredient of faith can move mountains (Mt 17:20). This is an important truth to embrace because there is no greater summit of obstruction in our connection with God and others … Read more
A prayer of faith moves heaven. It is effective when we believe in who God is and that he will answer (Heb 11:6). James encourages us to seek God in prayer for our afflictions, “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church and let them pray over him, anointing … Read more
Hills and valleys mark the trailways of faith. While we are exhorted by scripture to rejoice always in God, Jesus also taught that we shall experience trials and tribulations in this life by which the Christian is not immune (Jn 16:33). Additionally, suffering is not always caused by persecution for our proclamation and witness of … Read more
Care in usage of our words matters to God. This discipline was of great importance to Jesus for he taught, “I tell you, on that day of judgement people will give account for every careless word they speak, (37) for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” … Read more
A Biblical patience has a present focus on God, with a heart that holds fast in his promises for our future. James fully understood the hardships that the 1st century church was enduring. He encouraged them to imitate the disposition of a farmer who laboriously sows with hope and expectation of bountiful harvest, as a … Read more
Patience is a faith sustaining fruit of the Spirit of God (Gal 5:22). Its operation is essential in our ability to endure trials and shield ourselves against the assaults of doubt and discouragement that Satan attacks us with. This is a primary concern James has for God’s people who (in the 1st century) were suffering … Read more
The love of money has a ruinous end. An unhealthy craving for wealth is a hindrance to loving one’s neighbor in accordance with God’s standard. Yet, in our sinful nature, we often place great value on worldly possessions that are here today and gone tomorrow. Solomon rightly observes the fleeting nature of earthly riches, “Do … Read more
The love of money is the root of all kinds of evils. Many of the first century Christians suffered at the hands of the affluent of societies as they used their political and judicial power to exploit the poor and needy, which James highlights earlier in his epistle (Jam 2:6). While much of his writings … Read more
Man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. The same is true for his time and how he uses it. Why is this true? It is because God has sovereign rule over both. Solomon observes, “The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps” (Prv 16:9). In … Read more