Monday June 27, 2022

Monday – June 27th – James 2:15-16     -----      
 
2:15)    If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food,
16) and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?
 
The Daily Walk Bible inspirational thought for today:
      PRAYER IS A SHIELD TO THE SOUL, A SACRIFICE TO GOD, AND A SCOURGE FOR SATAN.*

     Welcome to Monday!! Another start to a week filled with unbelievable possibilities and opportunities for us to be a powerful representative for the Kingdom of Heaven. Our inspirational thought is perfect as we begin this week. Its focus on prayer reminds us how vital an active prayer life is when we begin each new day. As a follower of Jesus, you are part of the army of believers who are engaged in spiritual warfare with Satan. While we may be gifted with many attributes for our work and activities, the only weapon we posses in our battle against the devil is prayer. I love the line in the inspirational thought that lifts up the effect prayer has on the devil. It is like a thousand fingers on a thousand chalkboards when one person begins to pray against the wickedness of evil in our world. Make a commitment that this will be a mighty week of prayer for you!
 
    In our pick verses today, James begins his defense of works following faith by giving us a timeless example of being a focused disciple. James’ bottom line is that while encouraging words to a person having a difficult time are okay, yet if we stop short of carrying out loving deeds, we fall short of being Christlike. The challenge we often have in James’ example is how do we fulfill these opportunities in a way that truly helps the person not just for the moment but for the rest of their lifetime. It is important for us to remember that James is writing primarily to new coverts from Judaism to Christianity who have been outcasted from non-converting family and friends. Many times, their income sources have been cut off and they have little to provide for their family’s daily needs. James’ question asked what does it profit the Kingdom of Heaven for one believer to have plenty and another to have nothing to feed their family. Words can only go so far, but intentional action can make a significant difference in the lives of someone going through a tough time. Let us all be more aware of opportunities for our faith to have some doing action.

Blessings
  Pastor Jim
Tuesday – June 28th – James 2:17

*Tyndale. The Daily Walk Bible NLT (Daily Walk: Full Size) (Kindle Location 33271). Tyndale House Publishers. Kindle Edition.

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