I’M SAVED, NOW WHAT? TAMING THE TONGUE James reminds us that we have the ability for taming all kinds of animals, yet we do a lousy job of controlling our own tongues. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no … Continue reading
BIBLE PASSAGE: Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10) MEDITATION: What do people see when they look at you? Do they see … Continue reading
I’M SAVED, NOW WHAT? USE OF TONGUES Just to be sure his point about ‘misusing our tongue’ is understood, James gives us an example of how something small can control something large. When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal.Or take … Continue reading
I’M SAVED, NOW WHAT? STUMBLING / IMPERFECTIONLiving as a Christian has its share of challenges and disappointments. Our disappointments can increase dramatically whenever we succumb to temptations. So what do we do to ease the pain of guilt when we sin? The scriptures encourage us to confess our failures and ask for forgiveness. Unfortunately some … Continue reading
I’M SAVED, NOW WHAT? TEACHING During the first century, teachers were honored members of the community. Since there was recognition with the position, some people wanted to be teachers for all the wrong reasons – they wanted the honor and respect that came with the position, but many failed to understand that being a teacher … Continue reading
I’M SAVED, NOW WHAT? BELIEF IN GOD James shifts his focus to belief in God. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. (James 2:19) He says it is good to believe there is one God, but implies that much more is required for salvation. Salvation … Continue reading
I’M SAVE, NOW WHAT? LIVING FAITH As James continues his thoughts, we see that he doesn’t overlook the importance of true faith. He considered faith as a crucial part of receiving salvation. He was concerned that some claimed to have faith, but it was not reflected in their lives. As a result, the authenticity of … Continue reading
I’M SAVED, NOW WHAT? FAITH IN ACTIONClubs and civic organizations of various types are available to those who are interested. Some have little or no requirements but others have well-defined commitments (either financial or time) for maintaining memberships. As a general rule, when we join a club, we pay our dues which give us certain … Continue reading
I’M SAVED, NOW WHAT? (part-21) JUDGMENT AND MERCY James shifts his attention to explain the consequences of those who fail to show mercy. Because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment. (James 2:13) Whenever we show favoritism, the odds are that we … Continue reading
I’M SAVED, NOW WHAT? (part-20) LAWBREAKING Many people have a tendency to categorize sins as minor and major. In other words they feel their sins are minor and the sins of others are major. As a result, they may agree that showing favoritism is wrong, but not serious enough to be considered a sin. Apparently … Continue reading