Words matter. Words make a difference to the one speaking them, and the one hearing them.Years ago, many of us were taught the phrase of “sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” In our younger years, we used this phrase to deflect the harmful words of others. But words hurt. I would imagine you have been hurt by words.
Words not only hurt, but words can influence others. James writes, “Not many of you should become teachers, my brother, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.” (James 3.1; ESV)
The influence of words is like that of a ship’s rudder. Even though a rudder is small, it can influence a large ship and take it where it wants to travel. (James 3.4)
What steps can we take to be sure we are using words properly?
- Change your mind. What proceeds from your lips is a product of what lives in our hearts. (Matthew 15.18) Our minds should be focused on things above (Colossians 3.2) and we should meditate on the higher things (Philippians 4.8).
- Are the words I speak helping? Are the words you are speaking encouraging to others? (Hebrews 3.13) Are the words we speak spoken out of love? (Ephesians 4.15)
Just some thoughts,
Why would someone want a bad eternity?
Personally, I cannot understand why anyone would know they may suffer eternal punishment and be satisfied to suffer the consequences. Further, I cannot understand how someone can believe that Jesus is real and still choose not to follow Him. Maybe I am partial because I grew up going to services, attending Bible classes, and being taught of the power of the Word.
Did you know the demons believe and even shudder (tremble) that God is one?
“You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder!” (James 2:19 ESV)
It is hard to believe the demons believe that God is one and still work against Him. It is hard to believe they shudder (tremble) in their belief, but still do what they do?
How can someone, who knows the oneness of God and the power God has over the world, still reject Him? The demons have chosen their fate, but people walking the Earth today still have a choice to obey Him before it is too late. Why do they not choose God?
If the demons, Satan’s army, know the power of God and shudder, should not everyone be mindful of the opportunity we have to obey God?
Are you better than the demons?
Do you believe and act on your beliefs?
Just some thoughts,
Christians are people of action! Being a Christian transcends beyond mere belief; it’s an active pursuit of a life modeled after Jesus Christ. This journey is not confined to Sundays but is an everyday commitment to living out one’s faith through actions that draw one closer to God.
First, if you ask God in faith for the wisdom to go through trials, He will grant you wisdom. (James 1.8) Faith is not just about weathering storms but seeking the wisdom to navigate them. When faced with trials, a Christian’s faith is a request for divine guidance, a wisdom that God promises to provide generously.
Second, the man who stands firm throughout trials will receive a reward from God—a crown of life. (James 1.12) The crown of life is a promise from God, just as Paul spoke in 2 Timothy 4.6-8)
Third, God is the giver of ever perfect and good gift. (James 1.17) We know this to be true because every spiritual blessing is found in Christ. (Ephesians 1.3) We know God will take care of His children. Matthew 6.19-34)
Fourth, we still must act. James writes, “be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1.22) If we only hear the word and then do nothing about it, we deceive ourselves because our actions do not follow through with our beliefs.
Do your beliefs align with your actions?
Just some thoughts,
Early Christians faced numerous challenges, including government persecution, adhering to a different set of beliefs, and striving to do what is right in an immoral world. These issues are not unique to the first century but continue to be relevant today.
How do you cope with the challenges you encounter?
James tells his readers that it is possible to find joy in the midst of trials and temptations.
Do you find joy, even in the smallest amount amid trials and temptations?
This is achievable for Christians because they have a long-term perspective. James writes, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” (James 1.2-3 ESV)
Steadfastness, when fully developed, helps Christians become mature and complete (James 1:4). A long-term perspective has its advantages.
Christians know that things in life work towards a greater good because they have a God who cares for their well-being. James encourages his readers to ask God for wisdom, as He will grant it to those who have faith (James 1:5-8).
How do you deal with challenges?
Do you have a long-term perspective?
Do you seek wisdom from God?
Just some thoughts,
The term ‘Christian’ is often associated with actions that reflect the teachings of Jesus Christ. As followers of Christ, Christians are expected to emulate his actions and teachings in their daily lives.
The Epistle of James provides a practical guide for Christians, outlining the actions and behaviors that should be exhibited in their day-to-day lives. It has been called the “Monday through Saturday guide for Christians” because of its practicality.
James, the author of the Epistle, was likely the brother of Jesus. (Matthew 13.55; Galatians 1.9) In the beginning, James and the other brothers of Jesus tried to discourage the Lord (John 7.5). However, as time passed, James grew spiritually and became an active member of the early Christian community.
- James was with the disciples in the upper room. (Acts 1:14)
- Peter sent good news to him. (Acts 12:17)
- James speaks to the brethren at the Jerusalem gathering. (Acts 15:13-21)
- Paul spoke to James and the elders. (Acts 21:18-25)
- James is mentioned in Galatians 2.9 as a pillar of the church.
James’ transformation from a skeptic to a devout follower of Christ is a testament to the power of faith. He witnessed the great things that the Lord had done and was inspired to share his story with others. Like James, we too can grow in our faith and become pillars of the church, spreading the teachings of Christ to those around us.
Are you willing to share your story and grow in your faith, just like James did?
Just some thoughts,
In this series of articles, we will explore the meaning of being a Christian, as described in the book of James. We will start by examining the origins of the term “Christian” and its significance to followers of Christ.
The term “Christian” is used three times in the Bible; Acts 11:26, Acts 26:28, and 1 Peter 4:16. Each time the word is used, it refers to a follower of Christ. Regardless of their origin or location, disciples of Christ began to wear the name of Christian and were recognized by others as being “followers of Christ.”
Before the term “Christian” was used, followers of Christ were known as people of the “Way.” This term was commonly used to describe someone who followed the teachings of Christ, as we can see in verses such as Acts 9:2, 19:9, 19:23, and 22:4.
In a commentary on Acts 9.4, A. T. Robertson says,
“It is a Jewish definition of life as in Isa_40:3 “the way of the Lord,” Psa_1:6 “the way of the righteous,” “the way of the wicked.” Jesus called himself “the way” (Joh_14:6), the only way to the Father. The so-called Epistle of Barnabas presents the Two Ways. The North American Indians call Christianity the Jesus Road.” (A.T. Robertson, Word Pictures on Acts 9.4)
In conclusion, the term “Christian” has its origins in the early followers of Christ, who were known for their devotion to his teachings. As Christians today, we are called to continue this tradition and follow the Way of Christ.
Are you ready to embark on this journey?
Just a thought,
