DECEMBER 13, 2021 READINGS... James 4:1-5:20 & 1 Timothy 1:1-2:15
Today we finished reading the book of James. (If you would like my latest book “Taking It Off The Page) …for a more complete synopsis of James let me know and I will tell you how you can get a copy.
James tells us the when there is fighting and quarrels among the believers, it is because of our evil desires. Jealousy leads to manipulation and abuse to get what others have…and when we cannot get it through our schemes, we then fight one another. James tells us that we don’t have because we either don’t ask God, or because we ask with the wrong motives. He calls us to humility before God, and staying away from friendship with the world. We are not to be “self-confident”, but we are to trust the Lord with today and tomorrow. We are to pray for those with needs, both physical and spiritual. We are called to warn, again with humility, and erring brother or sister. James is a very practical book, and when it is lived out in the life of a believer, it does allow us to just believe it precepts…but we must also live them.
We move to reading 1 Timothy…which is a “pastoral epistle” written by Paul to his young disciple…Timothy. Paul warns Timothy to not get caught up in arguments with those who promote myths and spiritual superiority. Paul desires that all believers be filled with love, that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and a genuine faith. He reminds us that the law is good when it is used correctly…meaning it is bad when used incorrectly. Paul emphasizes the centrality of the Gospel…that Jesus came to save sinners, and as Paul acknowledged about himself so should we, “of which I am the worst”. Paul’s encouragement to Timothy involves…that he would fight the fight of Christ…cling to his faith in Jesus…and keep his conscience clear. This is good advice for every believer. The last part of our reading deals with God’s order in the church. This clear instruction was under assault then, as it is now. People determine what they will do, and how they will worship, based mostly on their feelings…rather than by God’s clear instructions. Our churches should look like what God created them to be…and all things should be done according to the Scripture.
Please share your thoughts from today’s readings.
TOMORROW’S READINGS… 1 Timothy 3:1-6:10
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