By Chris Johansen
Read James 1:2-18
All too often we are caught up in the things of this world, drawn into societal expectations and worldly desires; testing us and tempting us away from God. James 1:2-18 encourages us to shift our frame of reference away from such things and towards the eternal, so that we may face trials and temptations with joy and humility.
Through a series of contrasting images, we are presented a heartening yet honest reminder that whilst we are weak to temptation and susceptible during trials, God can strengthen us through faith.
We are reminded that if we truly understand our own weakness and embrace God as our strength, our paradigm (the way in which we view the world) shifts from the societal norm of selfish independence to one of humble dependence; allowing us to view our world and circumstances with an eternal perspective.
- What does 5-6 tell us about the generosity of God?
- 9-10 ask us to take pride – in what? How is this the opposite from our usual way of thinking?
- What does 17-18 tell us about the nature of God and how he relates to us?
What would it look like to rely on the strength of our good and generous God as you go into your day, like James has highlighted for us?