Tag Archives: the book of James

November 22
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“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” (James 3:13, NIV)

Deeds done in humility are particularly fragrant because the person performing the deed is not doing it to draw attention to herself. Wisely, she sees a higher purpose and a bigger plan in play.

The greatest deeds, by God’s estimation, are performed in obscurity; the left hand unaware of what the right hand has done. The greatest deeds provide help to the helpless; hope to the hopeless; and empower the disenfranchised.

Everyone — regardless of title or status — can live a life of humble service to others and to God. Make this your ambition.  – Luther

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November 21
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“With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” (James 3:9-10, NIV)

When I read today’s scripture, I think of cartoonist Charles M. Schulz, who famously wrote these words for Linus: “I love mankind. . . It’s people I can’t stand!!”

Yet, “people” bear God’s image and likeness — the same image and likeness imprinted within each one of us.

When tempted to curse others, do you see a reflection of yourself; do you see the image and likeness of our Lord and Father? To see others (and ourselves) as God sees is the antidote for unkind words, and judgmental attitudes.  – Luther

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November 20
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“My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.” (James 2:1, NIV)

There is nothing more natural than choosing favorites.

However, as disciples of Jesus, we are to take our natural life and — through obedience to God — create a spiritual reality.

The reality referred to in today’s scripture verse is a reality where persons are not evaluated and elevated by the clothes they are wearing.

Persons who are obedient to spiritual laws have chosen to live in a spiritual reality. This does not mean being ignorant of natural preferences. It does mean being scrupulously obedient to God when He requires that our natural choices reflect a spiritual perspective.

Beware of preferring others by mere outward appearance. Kings may be disguised as paupers; and paupers can masquerade as kings.  – Luther

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