At first glance, this verse seems rather insignificant when compared to others like John 3:16 or the 23rd Psalm. But the more I looked at it, the more “meat” I found. Note some of these important words: For God is MY King… “My” indicates a personal relationship. A king’s first…
Continuing his reminder to remain faithful until the Lord’s return, James mentioned the prophets who spoke in the Lord’s name. They were ridiculed and persecuted for doing so, yet they remained faithful. These prophets were revered by the first-century Jews, so this reminder would have caught their attention and reiterated…
James is bringing his letter to a close, and he adds a gentle admonition: be patient. These first-century believers were so eager for Christ’s return, they were becoming anxious and impatient. (Sometimes I feel that way myself!) These people wanted Christ to return and bring judgment on those who’d oppressed…
“Watch and Pray” is one of Fanny Crosby’s many hymns. Such a wise woman she was! These words are an encouragement to us today. 1 Watch and pray that when the Master cometh, If at morning, noon, or night, He may find a lamp in every window, Trimmed, and burning…
Most of the time we think of sinning as doing things we shouldn’t do, such as lying, stealing, or being unkind to someone. But there’s another side to it: if we know we should do something and choose not to do it, these are sins of omission. The Bible gives…
Apparently the people to whom James sent this letter were making their plans for travel and business and life in general without consulting God for guidance or giving a thought to His will for them. James reminded them—we might make our plans, but God directs our paths (might sound like…
Submitting to God, as we saw in yesterday’s verse, is the first step of Christian service. Fellowship with God doesn’t happen without effort on our part. Our crazy sin nature gets in the way. We must be intentional in practicing the disciplines of Christ-like living. Being humble is recognizing our…
My mother taught me that the devil couldn’t *make* me do anything; it was always my choice to do right or to do wrong. No excuses allowed in our house! LOL But she also assured me that when I made the right choice, I would have God’s strength to see…
HYMN DAY! Julia H. Johnston wrote “Grace Greater Than Our Sin” in 1910. Grace is available to all who believe! 1 Marvelous grace of our loving Lord, Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt! Yonder on Calvary’s mount out-poured– There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt. Refrain:…
Sinfulness plagues mankind. But no sin is too big that it can’t be covered by God’s grace. God is able and willing to overcome human sinfulness. God has to resist the proud—the ones who say they can save themselves and don’t need to be instructed, who are scornful toward others…
