Hearing the Word of God is the catalyst to obedience (Rom 10:17). At the same time, the Holy Scriptures do not benefit us in the area of holiness if we only hear, but do not act upon what God says. This is why James cautions us, “But be doers of the Word, and not only … Read more
As a general statement, a parent delights in a child who hears their instructions and carries it out forthwith. Active listening and diligent obedience are essential for child to be found faithful in their assignments and reap the benefits of parental favor. If there is profitable value in obeying our earthly parents who are imperfect, … Read more
Listening is an art, and often more difficult to master than speaking. When James teaches the church, “my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear and slow the speak…” (v19), he is not promoting a vow of silence, but rather that we follow the wisdom of God in speaking. His instructions are not … Read more
James previously taught his readers (Ch 1, verses 16-18) in his letter that the source of true wisdom originates from God. The Christian is a recipient of spiritual rebirth through Christ Spirit. Therefore, we are empowered to both hear and do what God commands. This is especially true when it comes to what we say … Read more
God is not the author of confusion, nor instigator of evil. James teaches that the testing of our faith includes enduring temptations. Though God allows them, he is not source of them. Such evil comes from the devil. We can be overtaken by them when we obey our sinful nature, thus James exhorts, “But each … Read more
God authenticates and grows our faith through trial and temptation. Such seasons of life reveal the impurities and desires (within our hearts) that is hindering our devotion to the will of God for our lives. James assures us that the testing of faith has a divine purpose: to produce steadfastness in our walk with God. … Read more
Temptations will test our faith. The Bible assures the Christian that God is our help to strengthen us under its attacks and provide a way of escape (1 Cor 10:13). Even our Lord endured the allurements of the devil in the wilderness (Lk 4). He trusted in the Word of God to defend himself. He … Read more
James opened the first chapter of his letter identifying the benefits of persevering through troubles, “for you know the testing of your faith produces steadfastness…” (v3). As we venture into verse 12, he returns to this theme, as he describes the reward for those who endure the sanctifying process of trial. Why does God consider … Read more
In God’s kingdom economy, the currency of true exaltation is accessed through humility. Often material wealth, possessions and knowledge inflate human pride and causes us to boast in them as if they procures us an eternal weight of glory. James warns that such way of thinking causes us to lose sight of heaven’s perspective as … Read more
Humility acknowledges our need for God. This is especially true as we navigate the trials and tribulations we endure in this fallen world. Unfortunately, there are times in our lives where we depend man’s wisdom instead of God’s. There are times we lean (trust) more in our own understanding. James cautions against this way of … Read more