James 1:25

Scripture: James 1:25 

25 But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.

 

Observations: 

The law that gives freedom! I think of laws and I automatically think of restrictions, and rules, and things I CAN'T do. I love that this law is perfect and it gives freedom. When we are obedient to the Lord and abide by the law, we actually experience a freedom that is much better than the false sense of freedom when we disobey.

 

Application: 

 I babysat and it was such a joy to me to see that both boys minded me. I'd tell them something, and more often than not, they just did it. No questions asked. It is logical, since I'm in charge and I know best, that they would mind me. It's frustrating to me, and parents, and anybody who has ever had to watch a child who refuses to listen, and refuses to do as they are told. It's a struggle, when you know it would be so much easier if they would just obey. It's the same with the Lord, and I think it's why we are told to have faith like a child. When they mind and they submit, it's a joy. I want to be a joy to the Lord, and fully experience freedom.

Prayer: 

Lord thank You for giving us freedom and a perfect law to follow. You gave us salvation through Christ, and spared us from being held to this law. Help us to obey You out of love, and seek out Your statutes. Teach us to apply what we hear, so we may be blessed for our obedience. In Christ's name I pray, amen.

James 1:16-17

Scripture: James 1:16-17
16 Don't be deceived, my dear brothers.
17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
 
Observations:
The world and our evil desires are so deceiving. Satan tells us that certain things are pleasant and good, when in reality they are death to us. Sin slowly creeps in and we find ourselves deceived by materialism, pop culture, and even music. Verse 17 reminds me that all that is good and perfect is from God. If it's not from Him, then it's not good or perfect.

Application:

I thought about my hobbies and my free time, and asked myself if certain things were "good and perfect." Is this something God wants me to be doing? Also praising the Father for being so faithful and unchanging.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for giving us so many blessings. I pray You forgive us when we are deceived by the empty lifestyle of the world. Remind us to pursue and delight in what is good. We love You and praise You. In Christ's name, amen!

James 1:12

Scripture: James 1:12
12 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

Observations:
Not only will we be mature and complete, but we're going to be rewarded as well! It's so easy to forget that there's a reward. I know I do! There's a crown of life promised to us who love the Lord. Trials are to be viewed as blessings, since there is a reward! Another thing I thought was that this promise is to those who love God... we are to keep a loving attitude toward God through trials. Sometimes we pull away from Him, or question His authority, or even become angry at Him, only to regret our behavior later.

Application:
As I go through trials that test me (especially my patience, oh my goodness), I'm going to try to be more loving toward God. Praise Him more, and thank Him more, as opposed to what I fall into which is questioning His plan. I find myself asking "What is this going to accomplish? Why is it taking so long? Why is this so difficult?" and I need to make sure those questions take on a loving, prayerful, pleading tone.
 
Prayer:
Father, thank You so much for growing our group of women this fall. I pray for all the trials we are going through, all the worries, fears, and struggles that weigh on us. God I ask that You help us and give us strength. I pray for pure joy in these trials, and that we can be loving to others and in our attitude toward You. Let us be comforted with the hope of your promise! In Jesus' name I pray, amen!