JAMES

Tiny muscle great power!!

James 3 1-12, these verses are on how we should try to control out tongue. How true is it that this is a very hard thing for us to do? Well at least it is me. Blessings and curses both come so easily at times, which leads right back to a divided heart, does it not? It can either cause division or bring unity. Oh how to have the power to control the tongue. I am a work in progress, striving daily to do better. It is not easy case in point Tuesday I was reading and praying and studying the word, I left the house and was in a great mood. Suddenly, a big truck carrying of all things, new cars pulled right out in front of many of us that were going 70 mph. My first reaction was not a nice one, but thank the Lord I swallowed it down and did not let it pass my lips. Now guess what every big truck on the road pulled out in front of us that particular morning. All I can say good thing I had Jesus with me or those old familiar ugly words would have taken control.

James 3 13-18 We learn that we are wise and understand God’s way of life, we will live a life of good deeds. We do not need to brag on our own actions. We must let go of selfish ambition and jealousy. It does not say we should not be ambitious, we just should not only be trying to one up someone. Our ambition should be to live a life that brings honor and glory to God. Wisdom that God gives is peace, loving, gentle and willing to yield. It is sincere and shows no partiality. My own opinion here is that we should be all these things, however I do not think this at all means we are to let others run us over and use us as door mats. Even Jesus had times he would take a stand for what was right.

James 4

Sometimes we do not get what we ask God for because we ask with the wrong motives. It also say we can not be friends with the world and friends with God. I know that the world has all the pretty shiny things but I believe if we honor God and not give in to the things of this world, he will still give us numerous treasures and joy here as well. Do not succumb to sinful desires, we must resist and the Devil and as we do we will grow stronger. We must tell Jesus we can not do it alone. Remember, he has already sent the Spirit to help us stand strong. Abide, Draw close to and be in pursuit of Jesus.

11-12

Do not be criticizing others, only God should do this. This one is very hard for me. I can be quite critical. Who knew? I have decided that most people do the best they can at the the time. Not everyone is like me, maybe they never heard the name of Jesus or truly and a heart to heart talk with him. He has also reminded me lately, my life was not always built on him and though I am forgiven I was once someone who did not handle life very well. It handled me. I did not live a life that honored God.

13-17 Do not be so sure of your own planning. Be sure you bring it before God first. None of us are promised tomorrow. I know this all to well. You never know when your last time to see someone or speak with them will be, so be careful of your words. Oh this last verse Ouch:

Remember, it is a sin to know what you ought to do and not do it.

Lord I pray that you help us all to learn to control our tongues, to turn to you when it is wisdom we seek. Help us to live a life that brings you honor.

Be blessed my friends!!