YEAR 1, WEEK 37, Day 3, Wednesday, 11 September 2024

https://esv.literalword.com/?q=james+1

Observations from today’s readings and today’s S-WOD, Wednesday, 11 September 2024:

Note: Here is a link to a video overview of James — https://youtu.be/qn-hLHWwRYY

James 1:1 – James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ…

James identified himself as a servant of Jesus Christ. How do you identify and introduce yourself?

James 1:5 – If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.

Wisdom comes only from God.

James 1:8 — He is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

The sinful Christian is double-minded.

James 1:12 — Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

Trials are a test intended for blessing as they bring you closer to Jesus. See Romans 8:28, 29.

James 1:14, 15 — But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.

Among the world, the flesh, and the devil, the one you need to worry about the most is the flesh. It is his or her own desires which destroy the sinner. There are many temptations out there, but they are only an issue for you when you allow them to enter your heart.

James 1:20 – …. the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.

This is not hard to understand. Christians who live by grace and who are called to proclaim the forgiveness and grace that comes through Jesus, cannot be disposed to anger.

James 1:26 – If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.

How you speak to others reveals what is really in your heart. Perhaps only Jesus offers a more powerful statement about careless words than this one – “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:36, 37)

“Cross” Fit S-WOD (Spiritual Workout of the Day) – 11 September 2024: Let your temperament and your words reflect the grace of God.