Wisdom from James

This morning God used the book of James (from the Message) to encourage me. I share to help others who may have become discouraged or tired in the race.

My dear friends, if you know people who have wandered off from God's truth, don't write them off. Go after them. Get them back and you will have rescued precious lives from destruction and prevented an epidemic of wandering away from God.

Yes, Della, there is purpose in your writing. The world is filled with books and blogs and articles about all sorts of things. God's purpose in your writing is to reach people who need to hear His truth through your voice. Keep at it.

This applies to all of us. We are unique creatures that are vital to the body. Whatever gift you have, use it for God. Sing! Work! Give! You do have gifts. It doesn't matter if you're the best or the first. It matters that you are obedient.

More encouragement:

Friends, don't complain about each other. A far greater complaint could be lodged against you, you know. The judge is standing just around the corner.

Sometimes people grate on us. It's easy to start identifying their problem (in detail!) But that is not God's way. Don't complain or criticize those who irritate. Pray for them. This will keep your flesh in check and your spirit running the show.

Don't bad mouth each other, friends. It's God's word, His Message, His Royal Rule, that takes a beating in that kind of talk. You're supposed to be honoring the Message, not writing graffiti all over it.

Bitter doctrinal squabbles about minor issues give God's children a bad name (and give God a black eye with non-Christians). Keep the faith orthodox, and have grace for each other on secondary issues. Internal arguments drive away the lost - and THEY are our mission. Some questions we should be able to answer when asked:

Who is Jesus? - THE major issue.
Why did He come?
Can I know God?
What is the Bible?
Who is the Holy Spirit?
How & why should I pray?

It only takes a spark, remember, to set off a forest fire. A careless or wrongly placed word out of your mouth can do just that.

Practice NOT saying the first thing that comes to mind - especially in heated or tense situations. Submit your words to God for approval before you allow them to fly off your tongue.

(Thanks, God! I needed that!)