James 2:1

Scripture: James 2:1  

1 My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don’t show favoritism.

Observations: 

 Favoritism, partiality, special treatment, bias... when we do this, we are saying we love one person more than another simply because of what they have/look like. God loves us all the same, whether we are dirty, broken, young, old, rich, poor, righteous, unrighteous. He LOVES us regardless, and we should love others because of our GLORIOUS Lord Jesus Christ!

 

Application: 

 I think a humbling experience is to visit with the poor, or visit a jail, or a nursing home (trust me, people view the elderly as useless... it's so sad) and let that equality sink through. God loves us all the same, no matter what. When Christ would eat, He would sit with the outcasts of society. He didn't care how it made Him look. It might be good practice for us to do the same when the opportunities arise.

 

Prayer: 

Lord forgive us for picking favorites. God, it's so much easier to be around people that are like us. Help us to broaden our hearts and see people the way You do, and reach out to them and love them unconditionally. In Christ's name I pray, amen!

James 1:1-2

Scripture: James 1:1-2 
1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Greetings.
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds,

Observations:
The words pure joy always stand out to me when I read verse 2. PURE JOY?

Joy, per Merriam-Webster, means the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires : delight. We are supposed to feel delight, and be as happy as if we desired the trials we face?

When it segways into verse 3 (tomorrow) it makes more sense, and explains why we should feel this joy, and what trials accomplish for us! Rather, what God accomplishes in us through trials.

Application:
Think of the trials you are facing today. Can you see God at work in you through those trials?
My current trial is preparing for the mission trip. It's so easy to be overwhelmed while I'm planning what vaccines to take, how to do missionary medical insurance, obtaining camping gear, all the while fundraising, moving, marathon training, and keeping in touch with everybody. Just typing that was stressful haha! I have to keep submitting everything to God, and remember that He's gonna workout all the details! It's HIS plan for me that I go, so He will get me there :)

Prayer:
Father, I pray that You help us to be joyful through our many trials. I ask that You give us comfort and peace while we face hardships. We know You're sovereign, and You will take care of us and refine us. Help us to trust and praise You no matter the circumstances. In Christ's Holy name I pray, Amen!

Ephesians 6:21-24

Scripture: Ephesians 6:21-24
21 Tychicus, the dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know how I am and what I am doing.

22 I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage you.

23 Peace to the brothers, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

24 Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.

Observations:

Much like Tychicus, God sent you ladies into my life to encourage me! So thank you, dear sisters in the Lord!

Application:

I can think of several people today that need my encouragement. I hope to make it my "very purpose" to do so. 

Prayer:
Father, use each woman in this group to be a voice of encouragement. Help us to portray your grace. With undying love, we praise You! In Christ's name, amen.

Ephesians 3:10-13

Scripture: Ephesians 3:10-13
10 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms,
11 according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.
12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
13 I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

Observations
Verse 12 is one of my favorites of all time. I mean it, I have it framed in my bedroom. I can't ever get over the fact that I can approach God :) I can freely and confidently approach God! The holy, mighty God, Creator of all things. We have an all-access pass!! Even at my worst, when I come "tail-between-legs" and ashamed, God still receives me because Christ covers me.  I think of the prodigal son, how he was still welcomed by his father when he came back. In the same way, even when our sin is disappointing, God has mercy, through Christ. He doesn't turn us away when we approach Him with contrite hearts.

Application
Why do we struggle with approaching God? Are we hiding in the bushes like Adam and Eve due to shame? Are we running away from God like Jonah due to disobedience? Are we listening to Satan's lies, that we need to "have it together" prior to approaching God?

Prayer
Lord, encourage our hearts this morning to pursue you and approach you. We rejoice that you have a purpose for each of us. Help us to make time to seek you and have the confidence to do so even when our lives seem messy. Thank you for allowing us to come to you, and being such a loving, comforting Father. I pray for your presence with each one of us today. In Christ's name, amen.