6.02.2011

quick to listen, slow to speak & slow to become angry

James 1:2-8

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do."

i have found great comfort, patience, and strength from the first chapter of James. i could have quoted the entire chapter here for you, but the first 8 verses are those that read to my heart the strongest. although i have read it several times before, a friend urged me to reread the chapter. as i read, and reread this book i more clearly see James' comparison of wordly wisdom to Godly wisdom. he ends the book with encouragement to believers to be patient in suffering, praying and caring for one another, strengthening our faith through fellowship.

this is a major part of being a believer. encouragement, not just in yourself but in others. through that gift you will find patience in your longing. once again, through fellowship in others and in Christ.

now as i long for answers, a sign, or directions i have to remember James' emphasis that our actions will come naturally from us as we are filled with the Holy Spirit. James 5:16b "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.”

i pray this constantly not only in my time of need and want, but daily. through my prayer and thanksgiving i find my love for my Heavenly Father will naturally flow through my actions and words, praising Him. second will come what i am looking for... in Him.


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