New Testament in a Year

James 2:18-3:18
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James chapter 2 today continues in the strong words about good deeds accompanying a living faith.  James’ arguments are summed up in verse 26: “Just as the body is dead without a spirit, so also faith is dead without good deeds.”  Another very interesting verse in this chapter that always jumps out at me is verse 19 – “Do you still think it’s enough just to believe that there is one God? Well, even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror!”  I had someone once tell me that they believed in God – but that they realized that so do the demons.  The difference of course is that the demons are not indwelled by the Holy Spirit, as are those who have faith in Jesus as their Lord and Savior.  Still, a bit of a scary verse to think about, no?  Not necessarily for our own lives, perhaps, but maybe for others we know.  Let us pray that we and others we know not only know God, but know Jesus and are filled with the Holy Spirit!

James 3 verses 9 and 10 are powerful reminders on the danger of what can come out of our mouths: “Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it breaks out into curses against those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right!”  How true is this…  Reminds me of the old saying of being “two-faced”.   Or maybe having a forked-tongue?  The key here to how we can control the tongue I believe is answered in verse 13 – “If you are wise and understand God’s ways, live a life of steady goodness so that only good deeds will pour forth. And if you don’t brag about the good you do, then you will be truly wise!”   If we can focus on wisdom and what’s going on inside our hearts and minds, we won’t have to worry about what comes out of the mouth!

Worship God:  Today’s readings reminded me of the MercyMe song “On Our Way:”

Are you on your way to God?  Click here and be on your way to Him!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.” James 2:26 (NIV)

Prayer Point: Pray that your faith is fully alive. Pray that your saving faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior produces the fruit of loving deeds.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you from today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

Grace, love, peace, and joy!
Mike

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