137 Words of Wisdom from James

James 1–5, TBC Book Two, Chapter 137
Paul and Barnabas were not the only leaders who realized the growing number of disciples would need guidance to weather tests of their faith. When persecuted believers fled Jerusalem, the believers who remained formed a governing council, and James, known as “the brother of Jesus,” emerged as their key leader. James knew that the Jewish believers who fled were spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ far beyond Palestine, throughout the Roman Empire. To those believers, and now to us, James writes the following words of wisdom.

“Find joy in trials, for the testing of your faith develops perseverance” (James 1:2). Faith is tested by the difficulties outside us, coming from our circumstances, and by difficulties within, the temptations that entice us. So hold fast to this promise: “Happy is the one who withstands the test and perseveres under trial, for he/she will receive the crown of life.”

“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to become angry” (1:19). Anger is a roadblock to the life God desires for you. God’s word can rescue you from evil impulses, but the key is to listen and obey what you have learned. Obedience brings blessing.

“As believers, do not show favoritism by discriminating against the poor” (2:1). When you offer preferential treatment to a rich person but treat the poor disdainfully, you’re making a judgment based on ill motives. Don’t you realize you’re showing favoritism to the very people who exploit you, who cheat you in court? . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 137, for the rest of the story.)
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Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Check your words, watch your actions, . . . guard your heart.
     A promise to cling to: “For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. A good [person] brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil [person] brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:34-37 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Screen Door  Rich Mullins     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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