Jesus taught that all scripture testifies about him so that in him we might have life (John 5v39-40). King David taught that it is only by living according to God's word that we're kept on the right path (Psalm 119v9). What then could be better than reading the entire Bible? Click the menu to read about the program, choose a month or Bible book - or just work through the blog posts day by day.
BEGIN WITH PRAYER
"Lord open my eyes and my heart."
Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, your family, your church and the world.
Wisdom to chew on
Understanding to grow in
The James who wrote this letter around 40-50 AD was probably Jesus' brother. It deals with practicalities of the Christian life, beginning with the reality of hostility from others. James encourages the believers to see how suffering can mature their faith, and to ask God for wisdom in how to respond. The church he is writing to clearly has a social mix, so he then notes how the poor can take pride in their high position - presumably because of not being enticed away by things, whilst the rich can take pride in their lower position - in having a particular appreciation of the transience of what they might be tempted to rely on. As for relationships: they are to be free of anger and evil, accepting and obeying the word where it reveals the need of change like a mirror. In particular, they are to guard their tongues, care for the needy who have no-one to look after them, and keep themselves from being polluted by the world. As you read note how these traits are displayed in Jesus.
James 1
James 1
Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.
2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.
Devotion to offer up
You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.