God's living Word is always timely and relevant. The past two weeks, as I have read about trials in James 1, my initial understanding of the passage was shallow. Then trials started to come, and I began to think about how the passage applies to my particular predicament. How do I obey the command to consider it pure joy to face trials? Do I believe that the testing of my faith will produce perseverance, which will result in maturity and completion? I lack wisdom! Have I asked God, who gives generously to all without finding fault? If God gives me wisdom without finding fault, am I still finding fault with myself? Do I believe that He will really give me wisdom?
The words of other believers help me see God's Word in a new light too. A Bible study member noted that after facing trials herself, she finds that she is more merciful and less judgmental toward other people. At the time, her comment sounded good, but didn't strike a chord. Later, as I considered my particular difficulty, I recalled her words and realized that this is an important lesson for me to learn. In my struggles, I appreciate the graciousness and kindness of God, who gives me wisdom without finding fault. In turn, when I am frustrated with other people in their shortcomings (real or perceived), should I not extend the same graciousness and kindness to them?
Thanks be to God for His Living Word.
The words of other believers help me see God's Word in a new light too. A Bible study member noted that after facing trials herself, she finds that she is more merciful and less judgmental toward other people. At the time, her comment sounded good, but didn't strike a chord. Later, as I considered my particular difficulty, I recalled her words and realized that this is an important lesson for me to learn. In my struggles, I appreciate the graciousness and kindness of God, who gives me wisdom without finding fault. In turn, when I am frustrated with other people in their shortcomings (real or perceived), should I not extend the same graciousness and kindness to them?
Thanks be to God for His Living Word.