December 16, 2005
Read James 1
In Today's
Christians to rejoice in trials; heeding the Word of God; faith that works; dangers of the tongue; worldliness and pride; warning to the rich; power of prayer
Some of us are inclined to tell others about all our sufferings and sorrows with a "woe is me" attitude of despair, seeking sympathy from our listeners. Others are prone to blame anyone, even God, for their problems. What James was led to write may surprise you: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers (numerous) temptations; Knowing this, that the trying (testing) of your faith worketh (develops) patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire (complete), wanting (lacking) nothing (James 1:2-4).
However, James also reminds us: Blessed is the man that endureth temptation (remains faithful): for when he is tried (approved), he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with (by) evil, neither tempteth He any man (1:12-13). Trials in life may seem to be an undesirable waste of time, but they are a great benefit to those who remain teachable and faithful. The fact is God desires that we may grow and mature through those trials, the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold (I Peter 1:7).
All of us need to be reminded to draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you (James 4:8). Pity the poor soul who believes that it is only the devil who is giving him a hard time and, consequently, feels frustrated and distressed. All trials and assaults by Satan can only happen with the permission of our loving God and should prompt us to praise the Lord, knowing . . . that . . . (our) faith worketh (develops) patience, we don't need to fear what may happen. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid (John 14:27).
Christians possess the whole armour of God so that we may be able to stand against the wiles (schemes, trickery) of the devil (Ephesians 6:11). However, first we must put on the whole armour of God. . . Praying always (Ephesians 6:11,18). To withstand the devil during our trials, we also must remember above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. . . . and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:16-17).
Cross References:
For James 2:8: See Leviticus 19:18. James 2:11: See Exodus 20:13-14. James 2:23: See Genesis 15:6. James 4:6: See Proverbs 3:34.
Word Studies:
1:27 visit = care for, look after the needs of; 2:11 kill = murder; 3:2 we offend all = we make mistakes and offend others; 3:4 listeth = chooses, desires; 5:3 cankered = rusted, corroded; 5:11 pitiful = full of compassion.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Mrs. Sylvia Roehl and Robert & Hattie Cockrell · Staff: Barbara Jean Jackson · Government Officials: Gov. Don Carcieri (RI), Rep. Norman Dicks (WA), Rep. Jim Gibbons (NV), and Rep. C.W. Young (FL) · Country: Bhutan (2 million) in the eastern Himalayas of central Asia · Major languages: Tibetan and Nepalese dialects · Public worship, evangelism, and proselytization are illegal · 70% Lamaistic Buddhist; 24% Hindu; 5% Muslim; .3% Protestant/Roman Catholic · Prayer Suggestion: Trust the Lord for deliverance in times of trouble (Psalm 50:15).
Memory Verse for the Week: 1 Peter 1:23