"Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him? But you have dishonored the poor man. Are not the rich the ones who oppress you, and the ones who drag you into court? Are they not the ones who blaspheme the honorable name by which you were called?"
There are those who are financially poor, others that are spiritually poor, and still others that are relationally poor. Yet I wonder how we personally view those who are poor in all facets of the word? Do we distance ourselves or draw near? Do we regard them more or less? Or do we place different stigmas/assumptions/expectations on people who are financially poor moreso than spiritually poor?
A more penetrating question might be whether other's poverty is one of the first things we identify them with or whether we see their heart. Because it is easier, for example, to disregard someone panhandling at a traffic light, but would we react the same way if we knew their heart and true intentions? Moreover, would we conversely give someone who is rich the benefit of the doubt if they expressed a financial need?
The point James is making is to discern the heart, not the superficial, public exterior (rich or poor). Because there are those in the world financially poor but spiritually rich, and those who are financially rich and spirituality poor. Therefore we are not to concern ourselves one iota with monetary success or failure. The heart is the only thing that matters, and we must discern intent based on the character of a man, not his economic status. Moreover, we are to examine our own hearts first and foremost and ensure our personal focus is spiritually rich with the righteousness of Christ rather than shallow, self-serving and poor in spirit. Only then will we avoid the pitfalls James identifies and strengthen the church.
Friday, July 31, 2015
Monday, July 27, 2015
James 2:1-4 (Devotion)
"My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?"
There is an epidemic in the body of Christ (this side of heaven) called partiality. It is not a term used often because it is justified as an issue of preference rather than prejudice, but it is easily identified in the over-saturation of church buildings and denominations across the United States. In truth, church splits have fractured the bride of Christ and crippled our ability to unite because we show partiality to specific cultural, economic or peripheral (not foundational) theological differences.
We tend to justify our affinity to those we are similar to, which is not necessarily bad so long as it does not become undue bias or prejudice. When we show favoritism within the church is when sin enters the equation and draws tempestuous lines in the sand. In the example James gives, it is a monetary/economic issue that causes a man to stumble and disregard one person to show favor to another. Superficial bias will only cause us to self-protect though, rather than compel us to reach out and create bridges to those who are different from us, especially the unsaved.
The simple fact is that the kingdom of heaven is a melting pot of people from every tribe and tongue for those who profess Christ as personal Lord and Savior. So why would we draw lines in the sand here on earth within the church when there are none in heaven? Our identity in Christ must dispel partiality and destroy bias because we are family, regardless of our superficial differences.
There is an epidemic in the body of Christ (this side of heaven) called partiality. It is not a term used often because it is justified as an issue of preference rather than prejudice, but it is easily identified in the over-saturation of church buildings and denominations across the United States. In truth, church splits have fractured the bride of Christ and crippled our ability to unite because we show partiality to specific cultural, economic or peripheral (not foundational) theological differences.
We tend to justify our affinity to those we are similar to, which is not necessarily bad so long as it does not become undue bias or prejudice. When we show favoritism within the church is when sin enters the equation and draws tempestuous lines in the sand. In the example James gives, it is a monetary/economic issue that causes a man to stumble and disregard one person to show favor to another. Superficial bias will only cause us to self-protect though, rather than compel us to reach out and create bridges to those who are different from us, especially the unsaved.
The simple fact is that the kingdom of heaven is a melting pot of people from every tribe and tongue for those who profess Christ as personal Lord and Savior. So why would we draw lines in the sand here on earth within the church when there are none in heaven? Our identity in Christ must dispel partiality and destroy bias because we are family, regardless of our superficial differences.
Saturday, July 25, 2015
James 1:27 (Devotion)
"Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world."
There is constant friction between the flesh and the Holy Spirit that dwells in the hearts of those who have accepted Christ as personal Savior. The flesh seeks personal satisfaction above all else and will stop at nothing to gain whatever pleases its desires, while the Holy Spirit purposes the sovereign will of God that does not conform to man but convicts and holds man accountable to the standard of Scripture.
It is this dichotomy that James highlights when he defines what pure religion is. Does this necessarily mean there is nothing else that contributes to the picture of pure religion? Absolutely not, but what James appears to be pointing to in this example is the importance of being selfless and self-controlled.
Visiting orphans and widows in affliction requires a recognition that others have great needs that in some way we can remedy. It is an example/metaphor to highlight the need for us to abandon our self-centered bent toward the flesh and intentionally seek out those who are less fortunate. It signifies selflessness which James highlights as a sign of pure religion we should strive to emulate.
The other mark of pure religion James states is self-control that inhibits secular theology from becoming our personal theology. Self-control identifies our Christian faith, for Jesus exemplified this characteristic in His sacrifice for our sins. He submitted in obedience and relinquished His will to the Father, and we are called to identify ourselves the same way in self-control over sin and temptation. For if we desire that our faith be pure in application, selflessness and self-control must be our identity as Christ-followers, otherwise we are no different from the world and essentially undermine the very faith we profess.
There is constant friction between the flesh and the Holy Spirit that dwells in the hearts of those who have accepted Christ as personal Savior. The flesh seeks personal satisfaction above all else and will stop at nothing to gain whatever pleases its desires, while the Holy Spirit purposes the sovereign will of God that does not conform to man but convicts and holds man accountable to the standard of Scripture.
It is this dichotomy that James highlights when he defines what pure religion is. Does this necessarily mean there is nothing else that contributes to the picture of pure religion? Absolutely not, but what James appears to be pointing to in this example is the importance of being selfless and self-controlled.
Visiting orphans and widows in affliction requires a recognition that others have great needs that in some way we can remedy. It is an example/metaphor to highlight the need for us to abandon our self-centered bent toward the flesh and intentionally seek out those who are less fortunate. It signifies selflessness which James highlights as a sign of pure religion we should strive to emulate.
The other mark of pure religion James states is self-control that inhibits secular theology from becoming our personal theology. Self-control identifies our Christian faith, for Jesus exemplified this characteristic in His sacrifice for our sins. He submitted in obedience and relinquished His will to the Father, and we are called to identify ourselves the same way in self-control over sin and temptation. For if we desire that our faith be pure in application, selflessness and self-control must be our identity as Christ-followers, otherwise we are no different from the world and essentially undermine the very faith we profess.
Friday, July 24, 2015
James 1:26 (Devotion)
"If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless."
False perception is an epidemic in the church. It lives in the heart of man and manifests itself through masks we wear publicly, thriving within the crucible of religion. It is deceiving because others get a false sense that we are more righteous than we truly are, while we convince ourselves internally that marginal application of Scripture is acceptable behavior.
James does not shy away from the obvious that many in the church "think" they are religious. Religion is actually a popular concept these days. People worship and idolize anything and everything because gray is the most fashionable color of secular religion. In contrast, black and white is reserved for the "judgmental" sect of Evangelical Christians who fully submit to the authority of inerrant Scripture, and obey its teaching without apology.
Yet black and white is exactly James' intent, as he pleads for the church to cast out any gray within our hearts. For gray theology compels us to run off at the mouth and speak without thinking or measuring the impact of our words first. Or in greater view, gray justifies our behavior and waters down absolute truth to relative truth, confusing the character of God as only love without realizing the equally integral other half of His character called law (Scripture) that holds us accountable. Black and white forces us to practice what we preach, yet culture tempts us to abandon our faith and tolerate/justify sin (gray).
I pray we live unashamed of our gray theology intolerance because freedom is only found in the black and white of God's Word that gives freedom. But that intolerance must begin in the mirror, for we cannot remove the speck in others without removing the log in our own eyes. Change begins in our hearts first and foremost. May we embrace that enthusiastically with Biblical wisdom and discernment.
False perception is an epidemic in the church. It lives in the heart of man and manifests itself through masks we wear publicly, thriving within the crucible of religion. It is deceiving because others get a false sense that we are more righteous than we truly are, while we convince ourselves internally that marginal application of Scripture is acceptable behavior.
James does not shy away from the obvious that many in the church "think" they are religious. Religion is actually a popular concept these days. People worship and idolize anything and everything because gray is the most fashionable color of secular religion. In contrast, black and white is reserved for the "judgmental" sect of Evangelical Christians who fully submit to the authority of inerrant Scripture, and obey its teaching without apology.
Yet black and white is exactly James' intent, as he pleads for the church to cast out any gray within our hearts. For gray theology compels us to run off at the mouth and speak without thinking or measuring the impact of our words first. Or in greater view, gray justifies our behavior and waters down absolute truth to relative truth, confusing the character of God as only love without realizing the equally integral other half of His character called law (Scripture) that holds us accountable. Black and white forces us to practice what we preach, yet culture tempts us to abandon our faith and tolerate/justify sin (gray).
I pray we live unashamed of our gray theology intolerance because freedom is only found in the black and white of God's Word that gives freedom. But that intolerance must begin in the mirror, for we cannot remove the speck in others without removing the log in our own eyes. Change begins in our hearts first and foremost. May we embrace that enthusiastically with Biblical wisdom and discernment.
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
James 1:25 (Devotion)
"But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing."
This entire section on hearing and doing culminates with a call to persevere. It began with a warning on self-deception followed by an example that we could easily relate to, and now finishes with a vision of reward to those who apply the Word.
James affirms us that God's Law, His Word, is perfect. It can be trusted unconditionally because it is a reflection of His heart into the mirror of our lives that we can see through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We have complete access to His will when we spend quality time (not quantity) studying the Scriptures with teachable hearts. Therefore we are without excuse because He has revealed Himself to us and not held back anything we need.
Not only is God's Law perfect, it liberates us from the bondage of self-deception. It is FREEDOM, a concept the world struggles mightily to understand. In truth, those who reject the Word of God do so because they view it as suffocating, shackling man from free will to live as he chooses. Yet they misunderstand that Scripture protects and allows us to live freely because we are no longer slaves to our flesh. We live for a higher purpose BECAUSE OF God's absolute truth, and that is made possible through the law of liberty.
Persevering fleshly desires and culture's tempestuous schemes is the key to not falling victim to hearing and not doing what Scripture says. For we are bombarded daily with reasons to be timid in stepping forward in faith or simply lazy altogether to avoid the baggage that might come with living out the Gospel. Yet in those moments we forget that God didn't simply speak a Word and said He would save us, He put Word into action and sacrificed His Son in application to save us. God ACTED, so there is no justifiable reason why we cannot as well in thanksgiving for what He did on our behalf.
This entire section on hearing and doing culminates with a call to persevere. It began with a warning on self-deception followed by an example that we could easily relate to, and now finishes with a vision of reward to those who apply the Word.
James affirms us that God's Law, His Word, is perfect. It can be trusted unconditionally because it is a reflection of His heart into the mirror of our lives that we can see through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We have complete access to His will when we spend quality time (not quantity) studying the Scriptures with teachable hearts. Therefore we are without excuse because He has revealed Himself to us and not held back anything we need.
Not only is God's Law perfect, it liberates us from the bondage of self-deception. It is FREEDOM, a concept the world struggles mightily to understand. In truth, those who reject the Word of God do so because they view it as suffocating, shackling man from free will to live as he chooses. Yet they misunderstand that Scripture protects and allows us to live freely because we are no longer slaves to our flesh. We live for a higher purpose BECAUSE OF God's absolute truth, and that is made possible through the law of liberty.
Persevering fleshly desires and culture's tempestuous schemes is the key to not falling victim to hearing and not doing what Scripture says. For we are bombarded daily with reasons to be timid in stepping forward in faith or simply lazy altogether to avoid the baggage that might come with living out the Gospel. Yet in those moments we forget that God didn't simply speak a Word and said He would save us, He put Word into action and sacrificed His Son in application to save us. God ACTED, so there is no justifiable reason why we cannot as well in thanksgiving for what He did on our behalf.
Tuesday, July 21, 2015
James 1:23-24 (Devotion)
"For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like."
When we stare into a mirror we see a reflection of what we physically look like, but it is only a physical reflection and not a spiritual one which James points to. That reflection is demonstrated in our application of Scripture which God always sees but those around us may or may not.
James states in his example that this man's look or stare into the mirror is intense. It is not a glance but an intentional act of measurement, yet I wonder how often we intensely stare into our hearts and quantify. Do we pull back the curtain and let light in to expose the dark nuances of our lives, or do we remain in the shadows where sin quietly destroys?
I believe it is ridiculous commonplace in the church to wear an artificial mask to cover our true self from public shame and ridicule. For if others saw our failures and insecurities, would they disassociate from us? In truth, our natural face is simply a reflection of our natural heart, but how quickly we forget what our hearts look like when we choose sin over righteousness. In those moments, we forget that our identity is IN christ, and therefore the reflection of Jesus in the mirror is replaced by self.
Make no mistake, forgetting this truth is thwarting our unity in the body of Christ and allowing secular theology to confuse and displace us as if we were the tower of Babel. The enemy is winning and we are idly standing by and allowing it to happen because we have forgotten our identity as Christ-followers. Therefore we must not concern ourselves with outward adornment but inward sanctification. Because if we desire to win souls for Christ, we must begin living from the inside-out and unashamed of God's Word, to displace cultural skepticism with authentic application of Scripture.
When we stare into a mirror we see a reflection of what we physically look like, but it is only a physical reflection and not a spiritual one which James points to. That reflection is demonstrated in our application of Scripture which God always sees but those around us may or may not.
James states in his example that this man's look or stare into the mirror is intense. It is not a glance but an intentional act of measurement, yet I wonder how often we intensely stare into our hearts and quantify. Do we pull back the curtain and let light in to expose the dark nuances of our lives, or do we remain in the shadows where sin quietly destroys?
I believe it is ridiculous commonplace in the church to wear an artificial mask to cover our true self from public shame and ridicule. For if others saw our failures and insecurities, would they disassociate from us? In truth, our natural face is simply a reflection of our natural heart, but how quickly we forget what our hearts look like when we choose sin over righteousness. In those moments, we forget that our identity is IN christ, and therefore the reflection of Jesus in the mirror is replaced by self.
Make no mistake, forgetting this truth is thwarting our unity in the body of Christ and allowing secular theology to confuse and displace us as if we were the tower of Babel. The enemy is winning and we are idly standing by and allowing it to happen because we have forgotten our identity as Christ-followers. Therefore we must not concern ourselves with outward adornment but inward sanctification. Because if we desire to win souls for Christ, we must begin living from the inside-out and unashamed of God's Word, to displace cultural skepticism with authentic application of Scripture.
Monday, July 20, 2015
James 1:22 (Devotion)
"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."
No matter how you slice it, application of God's Word is the true mark of a Christ-follower. It is the fruit produced from a spiritual harvest, defining who we are in the midst of a world bent against Christianity. Bottom-line: Application is our call to obedience, not merely knowledge attainment, lest we become Pharisaical.
Scripture speaks clearly on the implications of confessing Christ as our personal Savior. It requires full submission to the authority of the Bible, producing works that do not save but publicly mirror the inward work of the Holy Spirit. It provides accountability for our lives that measures what fruit we truly bear, and holds us to a standard the world does not comprehend. Yet many confess Christ but (in truth) continue to live consumed with pleasing their fleshly desires rather than fulfilling the will of God found in Scripture.
Peter understood this dilemma and echoed James by stating that it would be better for a believer to not know the way of righteousness than be filled with knowledge and lack application (2 Peter 2:21). For it is our application of the Bible's instructions, warnings and encouragements that identifies who we are both publicly and to one another within the body of Christ. It does no one any good when we remain timid, silent and reserved. Therefore, we must take a stand. Yes, discern and pray on all occasions to ensure the Spirit is leading in decisions made, but step forward in faith and ACT! For the world is in desperate need of Christians who take their faith serious enough to emulate the light of Christ in thought AND action.
We are our greatest asset and liability in the advancement of the Gospel throughout the world. Let us not forget that truth lest we cause more division in the body and quench the Spirit's fire by our lazy application of God's Word. Because simply knowing what it says is unacceptable in today's culture.
No matter how you slice it, application of God's Word is the true mark of a Christ-follower. It is the fruit produced from a spiritual harvest, defining who we are in the midst of a world bent against Christianity. Bottom-line: Application is our call to obedience, not merely knowledge attainment, lest we become Pharisaical.
Scripture speaks clearly on the implications of confessing Christ as our personal Savior. It requires full submission to the authority of the Bible, producing works that do not save but publicly mirror the inward work of the Holy Spirit. It provides accountability for our lives that measures what fruit we truly bear, and holds us to a standard the world does not comprehend. Yet many confess Christ but (in truth) continue to live consumed with pleasing their fleshly desires rather than fulfilling the will of God found in Scripture.
Peter understood this dilemma and echoed James by stating that it would be better for a believer to not know the way of righteousness than be filled with knowledge and lack application (2 Peter 2:21). For it is our application of the Bible's instructions, warnings and encouragements that identifies who we are both publicly and to one another within the body of Christ. It does no one any good when we remain timid, silent and reserved. Therefore, we must take a stand. Yes, discern and pray on all occasions to ensure the Spirit is leading in decisions made, but step forward in faith and ACT! For the world is in desperate need of Christians who take their faith serious enough to emulate the light of Christ in thought AND action.
We are our greatest asset and liability in the advancement of the Gospel throughout the world. Let us not forget that truth lest we cause more division in the body and quench the Spirit's fire by our lazy application of God's Word. Because simply knowing what it says is unacceptable in today's culture.
Thursday, July 16, 2015
James 1:21 (Devotion)
"Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls."
Just as we must put off unrighteous anger by being quick to listen and slow to speak, James admonishes that all moral sin be eradicated from our lives. It goes without saying that self-recognition of sinful tendencies and patterns is paramount (which requires great humility), for we cannot fix what we do not recognize as the root issues of sin in our lives. But I find the verbiage here extremely important.
Filthiness is defined by Webster's 1828 Dictionary as "foul, dirty and nasty, by means of corruption, pollution and anything that defiles moral character." Therefore, do we see our sin that way or only marginally evil? Similarly, the idea of our wickedness being rampant could range from being a consistent struggle and failure to literally being so out of control that restraint is impossible. In either case, wickedness prevails and severely diminishes the effectiveness of truth breaking strongholds.
Our only remedy is meekness, which Webster defines in an evangelical sense as "humility, resignation, and submission to the divine will without murmuring." What a contrast of pictures! Not only are we to surrender control to the Holy Spirit, but without murmuring and complaining that would undermine our intent to seek righteousness. This should provide great conviction and encouragement in the midst of various degrees of sin addiction though, because we can overcome sin by the power of the Holy Spirit. The question is whether we want to be broken of our patterns and set free, because comfortability is an idol that is only defeated by extreme intentionality and surrender to Christ and His Word.
Just as we must put off unrighteous anger by being quick to listen and slow to speak, James admonishes that all moral sin be eradicated from our lives. It goes without saying that self-recognition of sinful tendencies and patterns is paramount (which requires great humility), for we cannot fix what we do not recognize as the root issues of sin in our lives. But I find the verbiage here extremely important.
Filthiness is defined by Webster's 1828 Dictionary as "foul, dirty and nasty, by means of corruption, pollution and anything that defiles moral character." Therefore, do we see our sin that way or only marginally evil? Similarly, the idea of our wickedness being rampant could range from being a consistent struggle and failure to literally being so out of control that restraint is impossible. In either case, wickedness prevails and severely diminishes the effectiveness of truth breaking strongholds.
Our only remedy is meekness, which Webster defines in an evangelical sense as "humility, resignation, and submission to the divine will without murmuring." What a contrast of pictures! Not only are we to surrender control to the Holy Spirit, but without murmuring and complaining that would undermine our intent to seek righteousness. This should provide great conviction and encouragement in the midst of various degrees of sin addiction though, because we can overcome sin by the power of the Holy Spirit. The question is whether we want to be broken of our patterns and set free, because comfortability is an idol that is only defeated by extreme intentionality and surrender to Christ and His Word.
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
James 1:19-20 (Devotion)
"Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God."
Anger is a prevalent issue for men. Christian counselor, Dr. Gary Rosberg, argues that anger is the predominant emotion men filter their feelings and emotions through. Because men struggle to articulate how they're feeling, anger is the tool of choice to convey how they are feeling even though it may be sadness, frustration, disappointment, etc, that they are actually feeling, not anger.
The more men I've discussed this with over the years, the more confidant I am that Dr. Rosberg's assessment is spot on. They identify with the communication struggle to articulate their emotions that manifests itself in anger. But is that the only issue men need to address?
According to James, anger originates from a quick tongue and a closed ear. It does not yield to the other person speaking. Rather, it protects self by dominating the conversation to gain control. I find that when I get defensive over an accusation, whether true or false, I begin plotting my rebuttal rather than listening to understand. Or when I feel my opinion is not being heard, I raise my volume or cut off the other person from speaking (especially my wife), to no avail. Or when I react versus respond and do not think before I speak but throw stones to deflect conviction, anger rises to the surface.
Now of course there is such a thing as righteous anger that can be justified, but James appears to be concerned with the non-righteous variety that we're much more affluent in. We do have a choice though and self-control is available through the Spirit 24/7, so we can improve mightily in this area without excuse. I also firmly believe we can learn an infinite amount of wisdom from our wives who articulate feelings better than we do. The question is: Are we humble enough to receive rebuke and correction in this area?
Anger is a prevalent issue for men. Christian counselor, Dr. Gary Rosberg, argues that anger is the predominant emotion men filter their feelings and emotions through. Because men struggle to articulate how they're feeling, anger is the tool of choice to convey how they are feeling even though it may be sadness, frustration, disappointment, etc, that they are actually feeling, not anger.
The more men I've discussed this with over the years, the more confidant I am that Dr. Rosberg's assessment is spot on. They identify with the communication struggle to articulate their emotions that manifests itself in anger. But is that the only issue men need to address?
According to James, anger originates from a quick tongue and a closed ear. It does not yield to the other person speaking. Rather, it protects self by dominating the conversation to gain control. I find that when I get defensive over an accusation, whether true or false, I begin plotting my rebuttal rather than listening to understand. Or when I feel my opinion is not being heard, I raise my volume or cut off the other person from speaking (especially my wife), to no avail. Or when I react versus respond and do not think before I speak but throw stones to deflect conviction, anger rises to the surface.
Now of course there is such a thing as righteous anger that can be justified, but James appears to be concerned with the non-righteous variety that we're much more affluent in. We do have a choice though and self-control is available through the Spirit 24/7, so we can improve mightily in this area without excuse. I also firmly believe we can learn an infinite amount of wisdom from our wives who articulate feelings better than we do. The question is: Are we humble enough to receive rebuke and correction in this area?
Monday, July 13, 2015
James 1:18 (Devotion)
"Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures."
As much as we struggle with choices on a daily basis, it is beyond comprehension knowing our sins, struggles, insecurities and failures, that without fail, God chose to have a relationship with us. And not just any relationship, but the most intimate relationship we could ever have (moreso than with our wives, children, family members or friends). He sets us apart in His creation, and that is a privilege that we ought never take lightly for it was bought with a price by the shed blood of Jesus.
As we've studied previously, God is true, unwavering and constant. His Word is absolute for all eternity and trustworthy, inspired by the Spirit of truth so that we would be able to share in His wisdom and grow in our personal relationship with Him. But more importantly, His will is not contingent upon man's response. He does not hold back His favor but shares it graciously so that we would not be deceived or tempted to sway from the shelter of His Word. Therefore, we are without excuse in knowing His true character.
Yet I find my heart at times almost drifting about this truth. Because I don't stop to intentionally reflect upon it, in my flesh, I tend to take it for granted...and I worry my brothers in Christ share the same plight. So how do we break the monotony? I believe we can encourage one another of this truth when trials of life are overwhelming, such as reminding our brothers in Christ that God set us apart as firstfruits of His creation for a specific purpose helps remind the heart that this life is not void of meaning. Or because God chose to love us of His own will according to the truth of His Word, the stronghold of loneliness and isolation that Satan plagues us with is destroyed. Bottom-line: Our hearts need reminders, and it is our obligation as Christ-followers to preach this truth so we know who God is, lest we're deceived.
As much as we struggle with choices on a daily basis, it is beyond comprehension knowing our sins, struggles, insecurities and failures, that without fail, God chose to have a relationship with us. And not just any relationship, but the most intimate relationship we could ever have (moreso than with our wives, children, family members or friends). He sets us apart in His creation, and that is a privilege that we ought never take lightly for it was bought with a price by the shed blood of Jesus.
As we've studied previously, God is true, unwavering and constant. His Word is absolute for all eternity and trustworthy, inspired by the Spirit of truth so that we would be able to share in His wisdom and grow in our personal relationship with Him. But more importantly, His will is not contingent upon man's response. He does not hold back His favor but shares it graciously so that we would not be deceived or tempted to sway from the shelter of His Word. Therefore, we are without excuse in knowing His true character.
Yet I find my heart at times almost drifting about this truth. Because I don't stop to intentionally reflect upon it, in my flesh, I tend to take it for granted...and I worry my brothers in Christ share the same plight. So how do we break the monotony? I believe we can encourage one another of this truth when trials of life are overwhelming, such as reminding our brothers in Christ that God set us apart as firstfruits of His creation for a specific purpose helps remind the heart that this life is not void of meaning. Or because God chose to love us of His own will according to the truth of His Word, the stronghold of loneliness and isolation that Satan plagues us with is destroyed. Bottom-line: Our hearts need reminders, and it is our obligation as Christ-followers to preach this truth so we know who God is, lest we're deceived.
Sunday, July 12, 2015
James 1:17 (Devotion)
"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."
There is great peace knowing God is full control, sovereign and constant. Those who reject God as creator and eternal judge stake no value in any supreme being for they declare themselves masters of their own fate. And while it is true that due to free-will we choose to accept God for who He is or reject Him, the truth remains for the Christ-follower that God's existence in no way is dependant on man.
James reinforces to the church that God can be trusted because He never changes. Though seasons come and go, He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. There is no hidden shadow to His character because He is love and law simultaneously. He never contradicts Himself within the pages of Scripture because it is His Word, not simply the word of man. And He is the author and source of all good within the world for all mankind.
In context with verse 16, James certainly clarifies any confusion on who we believe God to be so as not to be deceived. But I believe when we examine our hearts we quickly realize that as Christians, not everything goes the way we think. Sometimes life brings tough trials and our flesh questions whether God is good. Yet what we think and what truly is are two different issues. We cannot measure goodness solely on our finite emotion and experience. Rather, we must accept that our Father in heaven bestows good and perfect gifts that are immeasurable for us to comprehend. And in truth, the most perfect gifts are those that do not come so easily but are more appreciated because of the trials we endure.
There is great peace knowing God is full control, sovereign and constant. Those who reject God as creator and eternal judge stake no value in any supreme being for they declare themselves masters of their own fate. And while it is true that due to free-will we choose to accept God for who He is or reject Him, the truth remains for the Christ-follower that God's existence in no way is dependant on man.
James reinforces to the church that God can be trusted because He never changes. Though seasons come and go, He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. There is no hidden shadow to His character because He is love and law simultaneously. He never contradicts Himself within the pages of Scripture because it is His Word, not simply the word of man. And He is the author and source of all good within the world for all mankind.
In context with verse 16, James certainly clarifies any confusion on who we believe God to be so as not to be deceived. But I believe when we examine our hearts we quickly realize that as Christians, not everything goes the way we think. Sometimes life brings tough trials and our flesh questions whether God is good. Yet what we think and what truly is are two different issues. We cannot measure goodness solely on our finite emotion and experience. Rather, we must accept that our Father in heaven bestows good and perfect gifts that are immeasurable for us to comprehend. And in truth, the most perfect gifts are those that do not come so easily but are more appreciated because of the trials we endure.
Saturday, July 11, 2015
James 1:16 (Devotion)
"Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers."
It is easy sometimes to blow by a verse of Scripture. It's almost as if the simplicity of truth is so obvious that there is no need to really comment or spend any time reflecting. Verse 16 falls into that category.
I almost lumped verses 16-18 together for a devotion but chose to rest on the truth James intended when he stated these 7 powerful words. Why? Because when I look into my own heart, at the body of Christ, and the culture at large, I see rampant deception and it is catastrophic.
Deception is a popular topic throughout Scripture. Many verses give direct commands not to deceive yourself or let others deceive you. Simply do a Bible search on the various forms of the word and you will find real-life examples and see how serious God is on the topic. Yet I wonder, "How often we think about it?" Do we think more highly of ourselves than we ought? Are we easily swayed by secular thoughts that contradict Scripture? Do we realize and recognize the spiritual warfare surrounding us on a daily basis? Are we a stumbling block to others by our actions, attitudes and behaviors without realizing it?
The point is to slam on the brakes and do a self-examination, because if we blow by verse 16, we lose sight of profound wisdom that is greater than we can fathom. The call is one of love from James to his beloved brothers in Christ and the church at large that none of us would be deceived nor deceive others from the treasure of God's Word that brings light and life to a dark world in desperate need of absolute truth. But that truth will never be fully realized if we do not take it as seriously as the text suggests and recognize our self-deception first. Therefore I pray that the Spirit of truth would illuminate our hearts and cast away shadows that like cancer are eating away at our personal convictions regarding sin and truth, both in our own lives and the lives of those around us.
It is easy sometimes to blow by a verse of Scripture. It's almost as if the simplicity of truth is so obvious that there is no need to really comment or spend any time reflecting. Verse 16 falls into that category.
I almost lumped verses 16-18 together for a devotion but chose to rest on the truth James intended when he stated these 7 powerful words. Why? Because when I look into my own heart, at the body of Christ, and the culture at large, I see rampant deception and it is catastrophic.
Deception is a popular topic throughout Scripture. Many verses give direct commands not to deceive yourself or let others deceive you. Simply do a Bible search on the various forms of the word and you will find real-life examples and see how serious God is on the topic. Yet I wonder, "How often we think about it?" Do we think more highly of ourselves than we ought? Are we easily swayed by secular thoughts that contradict Scripture? Do we realize and recognize the spiritual warfare surrounding us on a daily basis? Are we a stumbling block to others by our actions, attitudes and behaviors without realizing it?
The point is to slam on the brakes and do a self-examination, because if we blow by verse 16, we lose sight of profound wisdom that is greater than we can fathom. The call is one of love from James to his beloved brothers in Christ and the church at large that none of us would be deceived nor deceive others from the treasure of God's Word that brings light and life to a dark world in desperate need of absolute truth. But that truth will never be fully realized if we do not take it as seriously as the text suggests and recognize our self-deception first. Therefore I pray that the Spirit of truth would illuminate our hearts and cast away shadows that like cancer are eating away at our personal convictions regarding sin and truth, both in our own lives and the lives of those around us.
Friday, July 10, 2015
James 1:14-15 (Devotion)
"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."
I've always felt this passage of Scripture was a tough pill to swallow not because I disagreed with it, but that it placed a mirror before my heart. At the core, no man wants to admit he chose to sin. We would rather say we fell into temptation as if we tripped over a bump in the road, or the devil made us do it, or we were provoked and led astray by someone else (thus blame-shifting). Taking ownership over our inability to resist our fleshly desires is our biggest obstacle to overcoming pride, yet it is the last straw we choose when conviction comes.
The gift of the Holy Spirit cannot be undervalued in this process. The Spirit's prompting is literally our life-saving flotation device in the ocean of sin, yet we feel compelled to tread water on our own instead. Why? I believe the answer lies somewhere between being nieve and pride that makes us spiritually blind to our own blindness. Irregardless, the truth remains that we are the source of our deepest anguish when temptations comes.
The ESV Study Bible paints a perfect picture-definition of lured and enticed: "A fishing metaphor for drawing prey away from shelter in order to trap them with a deadly hook." How often do we realize that OUR OWN fleshly desires draw us away from our safe haven in Christ, like a sea lion caught in the jaws if a killer whale? We certainly stretch our limits to see where the sin boundaries are in our lives, but we completely lose sight that desire leads to sin and death in the blink of an eye.
Thankfully, God understood our dilemma and provided both a temporary way of escape via free-will to choose righteousness over sin in the moment, and an eternal way of escape that bought our freedom unto salvation. I simply pray that we all realize the gift we have been given BEFORE temptation arises.
I've always felt this passage of Scripture was a tough pill to swallow not because I disagreed with it, but that it placed a mirror before my heart. At the core, no man wants to admit he chose to sin. We would rather say we fell into temptation as if we tripped over a bump in the road, or the devil made us do it, or we were provoked and led astray by someone else (thus blame-shifting). Taking ownership over our inability to resist our fleshly desires is our biggest obstacle to overcoming pride, yet it is the last straw we choose when conviction comes.
The gift of the Holy Spirit cannot be undervalued in this process. The Spirit's prompting is literally our life-saving flotation device in the ocean of sin, yet we feel compelled to tread water on our own instead. Why? I believe the answer lies somewhere between being nieve and pride that makes us spiritually blind to our own blindness. Irregardless, the truth remains that we are the source of our deepest anguish when temptations comes.
The ESV Study Bible paints a perfect picture-definition of lured and enticed: "A fishing metaphor for drawing prey away from shelter in order to trap them with a deadly hook." How often do we realize that OUR OWN fleshly desires draw us away from our safe haven in Christ, like a sea lion caught in the jaws if a killer whale? We certainly stretch our limits to see where the sin boundaries are in our lives, but we completely lose sight that desire leads to sin and death in the blink of an eye.
Thankfully, God understood our dilemma and provided both a temporary way of escape via free-will to choose righteousness over sin in the moment, and an eternal way of escape that bought our freedom unto salvation. I simply pray that we all realize the gift we have been given BEFORE temptation arises.
Thursday, July 9, 2015
James 1:13 (Devotion)
"Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one."
Of all the truths found in Scripture that people (in general) struggle to understand, this message from James would be near the top of the list. Many of those who reject the Gospel echo mass misconfusion around this topic. Their opinions primarily grounded in emotions prove only that who they believe God to be is subject to their experiential construct and not absolute truth. This is essential to acknowledge though, because in truth, many within the church privately believe similar misconfusion. They too filter truth through emotion for validity rather than the Word, and it is a serious issue we cannot gloss over.
Let us be clear in distinguishing trials that God gives to test us versus temptation. A trial is an event designed by God to refine our character, strengthen our faith, and draw us closer to Jesus and His Word. God uses trials as tests to measure the depth of faith we truly maintain as He did for Abraham, Moses, and the nation of Israel. Simply stated, a test reveals the honest, spiritual state of our heart.
In contrast, temptation lures a man into sin. It bends and twists truth to satisfy fleshly desires that elevates self over God. Temptation is never content but increases in deviance and idolatry over time like a downward spiral. Therefore, God would never create or instigate temptation because it would purposefully lure man further away from Himself as it exists in complete opposition to who God is as revealed in His Word.
The key as stated earlier is to separate emotion from truth, which is difficult to apply in certain situations (i.e. death of a loved one, terminal illness, prodigal child, etc). Any of these trials could easily result in temptations to sin where people blame God. The main point James reiterates is that God tests but does not tempt and is in supreme control despite our free will.
Of all the truths found in Scripture that people (in general) struggle to understand, this message from James would be near the top of the list. Many of those who reject the Gospel echo mass misconfusion around this topic. Their opinions primarily grounded in emotions prove only that who they believe God to be is subject to their experiential construct and not absolute truth. This is essential to acknowledge though, because in truth, many within the church privately believe similar misconfusion. They too filter truth through emotion for validity rather than the Word, and it is a serious issue we cannot gloss over.
Let us be clear in distinguishing trials that God gives to test us versus temptation. A trial is an event designed by God to refine our character, strengthen our faith, and draw us closer to Jesus and His Word. God uses trials as tests to measure the depth of faith we truly maintain as He did for Abraham, Moses, and the nation of Israel. Simply stated, a test reveals the honest, spiritual state of our heart.
In contrast, temptation lures a man into sin. It bends and twists truth to satisfy fleshly desires that elevates self over God. Temptation is never content but increases in deviance and idolatry over time like a downward spiral. Therefore, God would never create or instigate temptation because it would purposefully lure man further away from Himself as it exists in complete opposition to who God is as revealed in His Word.
The key as stated earlier is to separate emotion from truth, which is difficult to apply in certain situations (i.e. death of a loved one, terminal illness, prodigal child, etc). Any of these trials could easily result in temptations to sin where people blame God. The main point James reiterates is that God tests but does not tempt and is in supreme control despite our free will.
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
James 1:12 (Devotion)
"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."
There is a distinct advantage to the Christian faith, one that surpasses secular thinking altogether. It elevates the priority of Scripture and enables a man to reflect upon the blessing James describes as something tangible and worth seeking after. It is counter-cultural, but that is absolutely what James intended to convey when he penned these words.
Living opposite of culture is not an easy task as there are significant risks today for living a public Christian faith. Yet it is our privilege to endure even persecution as a trial that defines and edifies our faith, rather than shakes it or causes us to grow lukewarm and indifferent concerning truth.
Moreover, the trials we face fall under God's sovereign authority, so we could almost read James' admonition as, "Blessed are those who remain under the sovereign authority of God." It is easier for my heart to accept this terminology than "trials" because it reassures me that no matter what I face (trials included), God knows all and is in full control at all times. Therefore I can release all fear and anxiety over the unknown because His love promises me that He has the best in store for me...and that does not presuppose my life will be roses. It may be His will that more thorns than blooms represent my life here on earth, but that is temporary because the eternal crown of life (my salvation in Christ) enables me to endure whatever fiery trials come my way, and that is the true blessing of God.
There is a distinct advantage to the Christian faith, one that surpasses secular thinking altogether. It elevates the priority of Scripture and enables a man to reflect upon the blessing James describes as something tangible and worth seeking after. It is counter-cultural, but that is absolutely what James intended to convey when he penned these words.
Living opposite of culture is not an easy task as there are significant risks today for living a public Christian faith. Yet it is our privilege to endure even persecution as a trial that defines and edifies our faith, rather than shakes it or causes us to grow lukewarm and indifferent concerning truth.
Moreover, the trials we face fall under God's sovereign authority, so we could almost read James' admonition as, "Blessed are those who remain under the sovereign authority of God." It is easier for my heart to accept this terminology than "trials" because it reassures me that no matter what I face (trials included), God knows all and is in full control at all times. Therefore I can release all fear and anxiety over the unknown because His love promises me that He has the best in store for me...and that does not presuppose my life will be roses. It may be His will that more thorns than blooms represent my life here on earth, but that is temporary because the eternal crown of life (my salvation in Christ) enables me to endure whatever fiery trials come my way, and that is the true blessing of God.
Monday, July 6, 2015
James 1:9-11 (Devotion)
"Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation, and the rich in his humiliation, because like a flower of the grass he will pass away. For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits."
There comes a point when a man looks back at his life and takes stock of his mortality. In these moments, he acknowledges the plight he has been dealt by God, whether rich or poor, and reflects upon its advantages and disadvantages. It is a counter-cultural assessment of God's economy where the lowly are exalted and the rich humbled, but one that puts a trial-esque emphasis on God's provision and the impact it has on the human heart.
First, there is nothing wrong with monetary success. James is not condemning those who are financially successful, rather he is emphasizing that perspective is vital. In both cases, whether a man is entrusted with little or an abudance, how he managed the resources God provided speaks to the condition of his heart from an eternal perspective and to whom he attributes his success (himself or God).
Money is an issue that can pull a man into deep waters though when poverty or riches become worldly issues that consume the heart. Therefore, James exhorts the lowly to realize that their life on earth is temporary and eternal riches await those who trust in the Lord, while also exhorting the rich man who has humbled himself to take heart that he realizes his worldly possessions are indeed temporary. Bottom-line: Heart condition is James' focus amidst the trials of life and temptations of the world. However, as men who are providers for our families, the warning to not be consumed by status or success is pivotal too. We cannot gloss over the dangers of losing sight that our jobs are God's provision for our needs, not our identity in life. For as death awaits us all, so too is the responsibility that we must give an account.
There comes a point when a man looks back at his life and takes stock of his mortality. In these moments, he acknowledges the plight he has been dealt by God, whether rich or poor, and reflects upon its advantages and disadvantages. It is a counter-cultural assessment of God's economy where the lowly are exalted and the rich humbled, but one that puts a trial-esque emphasis on God's provision and the impact it has on the human heart.
First, there is nothing wrong with monetary success. James is not condemning those who are financially successful, rather he is emphasizing that perspective is vital. In both cases, whether a man is entrusted with little or an abudance, how he managed the resources God provided speaks to the condition of his heart from an eternal perspective and to whom he attributes his success (himself or God).
Money is an issue that can pull a man into deep waters though when poverty or riches become worldly issues that consume the heart. Therefore, James exhorts the lowly to realize that their life on earth is temporary and eternal riches await those who trust in the Lord, while also exhorting the rich man who has humbled himself to take heart that he realizes his worldly possessions are indeed temporary. Bottom-line: Heart condition is James' focus amidst the trials of life and temptations of the world. However, as men who are providers for our families, the warning to not be consumed by status or success is pivotal too. We cannot gloss over the dangers of losing sight that our jobs are God's provision for our needs, not our identity in life. For as death awaits us all, so too is the responsibility that we must give an account.
Friday, July 3, 2015
James 1:6-8 (Devotion)
"But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways."
Continuing from verse 5, James admonishes that faith is the prerequisite when asking God for wisdom. Faith is "a settled trust and confidence in God based on His character and promises as revealed in Scripture" (ESV Study Bible). So when we ask God for wisdom but do not fully trust that He can and will answer our request according to His timing and sovereignty, we are unstable in our thinking.
James furthers likens a man who doubts to a helpless wave tossed and driven aimlessly on the seas of life, because he trusts in either the world or his own abilities moreso than God. The picture of instability James paints is quite profound, for it reveals that who we believe God to be is foundational to understanding this teaching.
I would venture to guess that those of us who profess Jesus as Lord believe God is good. Yet James in writing to the church calls out a lack of faith issue. Why? If I examine my own heart, I come to realize that silence causes me to doubt at times. When I feel like God is not giving me clear direction, I tend to lean on my own ability or logical understanding based on experiential knowledge rather than Scripture. It is in those moments where I need self-recognition of this pattern and accountability through the body of Christ to break free. For in no way do I desire to be double-minded, supplementing the wisdom of God for the wisdom of the world based on convenience. Rather, I must be patient and believe firmly IN FAITH that God will honor my request for wisdom. For only He can satisfy my desire for wisdom because He is the ultimate source of it.
Continuing from verse 5, James admonishes that faith is the prerequisite when asking God for wisdom. Faith is "a settled trust and confidence in God based on His character and promises as revealed in Scripture" (ESV Study Bible). So when we ask God for wisdom but do not fully trust that He can and will answer our request according to His timing and sovereignty, we are unstable in our thinking.
James furthers likens a man who doubts to a helpless wave tossed and driven aimlessly on the seas of life, because he trusts in either the world or his own abilities moreso than God. The picture of instability James paints is quite profound, for it reveals that who we believe God to be is foundational to understanding this teaching.
I would venture to guess that those of us who profess Jesus as Lord believe God is good. Yet James in writing to the church calls out a lack of faith issue. Why? If I examine my own heart, I come to realize that silence causes me to doubt at times. When I feel like God is not giving me clear direction, I tend to lean on my own ability or logical understanding based on experiential knowledge rather than Scripture. It is in those moments where I need self-recognition of this pattern and accountability through the body of Christ to break free. For in no way do I desire to be double-minded, supplementing the wisdom of God for the wisdom of the world based on convenience. Rather, I must be patient and believe firmly IN FAITH that God will honor my request for wisdom. For only He can satisfy my desire for wisdom because He is the ultimate source of it.
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
James 1:5 (Devotion)
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
This next section of James 1 continues the theme of our faith being tested in trials with an emphasis on the role of wisdom. To begin, "wisdom, as in the OT, is a God-given and God-centered discernment regarding the practical issues of life" (ESV Study Bible). I love this definition because it reinforces that wisdom is found in God and given freely from God to those who ask.
It must be noted though that James makes what I consider a laughable comment of "IF any of you lacks wisdom." I doubt any of us would say we are overflowing with wisdom and cannot accept anymore. But more importantly, James emphasizes the call for us to act. We must ASK if we want wisdom. God is gracious to give it, but we have to do our part and ask rather than pridefully wait for God to bestow it on us of His own accord.
Moreover, asking without reproach is simply humbling oneself to come to God without feeling shamed in asking for help. This is a wise call-out and warning to us as men. Let's not kid ourselves, the majority of us to one degree or another struggle asking for help. Society further reinforces that sentiment as a sign of weakness. But here, James admonishes men to lay aside fleshly pride and approach the throne of grace in reverent humility to ask for help. What a phenomenal ministry tool that application could be if we applied it to our families! How much more respect would we receive from our wives and children if we modeled James 1:5 rather than preached it?
Bottom line, if we want true wisdom, we know where to get it and how to get it.....are we simply bold enough to humble ourselves and ask God? He's waiting patiently to generously give it.
This next section of James 1 continues the theme of our faith being tested in trials with an emphasis on the role of wisdom. To begin, "wisdom, as in the OT, is a God-given and God-centered discernment regarding the practical issues of life" (ESV Study Bible). I love this definition because it reinforces that wisdom is found in God and given freely from God to those who ask.
It must be noted though that James makes what I consider a laughable comment of "IF any of you lacks wisdom." I doubt any of us would say we are overflowing with wisdom and cannot accept anymore. But more importantly, James emphasizes the call for us to act. We must ASK if we want wisdom. God is gracious to give it, but we have to do our part and ask rather than pridefully wait for God to bestow it on us of His own accord.
Moreover, asking without reproach is simply humbling oneself to come to God without feeling shamed in asking for help. This is a wise call-out and warning to us as men. Let's not kid ourselves, the majority of us to one degree or another struggle asking for help. Society further reinforces that sentiment as a sign of weakness. But here, James admonishes men to lay aside fleshly pride and approach the throne of grace in reverent humility to ask for help. What a phenomenal ministry tool that application could be if we applied it to our families! How much more respect would we receive from our wives and children if we modeled James 1:5 rather than preached it?
Bottom line, if we want true wisdom, we know where to get it and how to get it.....are we simply bold enough to humble ourselves and ask God? He's waiting patiently to generously give it.
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