Day 21
BIBLE READING: James 1: 1-8
One book in the New Testament that is not often studied is the short epistle by James. Yet these five chapters have a challenging message for Christian today.
Some Christians talk about love, but cannot get along with other Christians. They need to read the book of James. Some talk about holiness, but do not live holy lives. They too need to read the epistle. Some talk about other Christians in ways that are not Christlike. They ought to read what James has written. Every Christian needs to study this little book.
James was the brother of Jesus. He became a real believer in Christ after the resurrection. He was well respected by the whole church and was a great man of prayer. We are told he had the nickname 'Camel-knees' because he spent too much time kneeling in prayer.
The first subject James deals with is the fact of suffering and trial. That sounds rather up-to-date, doesn't it? What does James say? It is a privilege to suffer for Christ's sake. But how can we benefit from suffering? By looking for God's purposes in it.
First of all, suffering will help our faith to grow and help produce more of the fruit of the Spirit. We should realise that the temptations and testings which come to us are allowed by God for our good and for our spiritual growth.
Is it hard for you to see this? Then read verse 5 again. James is saying to us 'Ask God for wisdom to enable you to see the plans and purposes of God. He will give you what you ask for, but remember to do it in strong faith. Don't doubt God's love or his willingness to answer you. God is your Father and you are his child!'
Why not ask God for his help now to enable you to see more clearly what his plan for your life is today?
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