the book of James | Daily Encouragement | Page 57

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“Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.” (James 5:13b, NIV)

James reminds us that the rhythm of a disciple’s life is not all labor and toil. There are many periods of happiness and joy.

As we ought to run to God when trouble arrives, we ought also to give thanks to God when our path is smooth, the weather is fair, and our neighbors are kind.

The natural person attributes the presence of these things to many sources other than to God: Luck, one’s knowledge or skill, or the favor of others. The disciple sees only God (even when acting through others) as the source of all blessings.

James recommends this response: Praise God in song. Indeed, “praise God from Whom all blessings flow; praise Him all creatures here below. . . ” – Luther

Tagged God's care, singing, thanksgiving, the book of James

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“Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. ” (James 5:13a, NIV)

Prayer is not the first resource for many of us when we encounter trouble — although we keep it in reserve as a “last resort.” We want first to get free of trouble with our own resources (e. g. intelligence, cunning, friends, wealth. . .).

For the disciple of Jesus, our heavenly Father is not just our first resource, He is our only resource!

Trouble haunts all of humanity. Don’t be surprised when it comes. However, when we run to God, we will be amazed at how quickly the storm passes, and at our composure during the ordeal. – Luther

Tagged God's care, prayer, the book of James, trouble

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“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.” (James 1:5, NIV)

Decisions. Decisions. Decisions.

Having wisdom makes the burden of making the decisions in our lives much lighter. The source of wisdom is God, “who gives generously to all.”

The humorist Will Rogers said, “Learn from the mistakes of others; you won’t live long enough to make them all yourself.” So true.

God’s wisdom is not derived from the collected errors of humanity, but from a perspective that sees all things perfectly. Invite the wisdom of our heavenly Father into your decisions today. – Luther

Tagged godly wisdom, the book of James, Will Rogers, wisdom