Devotional - November 9, 2022
Scripture: James 1:21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
James, now, is pulling everything he has said previously together with the word, therefore. And in his conclusion, he uses a word that, for many, is somewhat daunting. The word being "all". As Americans, we feel stifled when presented with such ultimatums. I mean, what's a little here and there really going to hurt? Not to mention, what about grace? Doesn't that cover at least a little wiggle room? When entering into that kind of negotiation with God, we are not actually trying to establish a good relationship with God or be godly. Without a doubt, sanctification is a process, but compromise is something quite different. However, beware of perfectionism when entering into this process. Paul, being a Pharisee, is our expert in following the law perfectly. Paul would be well versed in what it took to attain that level of service. As a Pharisee, I am sure he presented himself as one who was perfect and pure, all the while knowing in his heart he was not (Mt 23:25, 27-28). Through Christ, Paul was able to admit his failures and goals (Ro 7: 15-20, Phil 3: 13-15). In this case, James' all-encompassing aim is directed at moral filth. He has a point. Why would a person who seeks to be right with God purposely involve themselves in evil or things of a base nature? It doesn't line up. And when you really think about it, what does it produce, or destroy? Yet, even more interesting is how James finishes his thought. How he characterizes the nature by which God's Spirit moves and works in us. First, we have to be humble. We need to have an open mind and willing heart... We have to want to learn and be open to what the Spirit seeks to develop in us. I say develop because James uses the illustration of a seed growing into a plant as he illustrates his point. So, he is not talking about something that is automatic, but instead a growth process. The goal being salvation. Too many people liken salvation to a ticket. Say the right words and, voila, you get a ticket to heaven which is redeemable when you pass from this world to the next. Salvation means so much more, as does eternal life. The definition of the word eternal extends far beyond endless, it means not having a beginning as well. When we receive the truth concerning Jesus Christ, we enter into eternal life, the life given through Christ. Imagine it as though you are jumping into a river for which there is no beginning or end. You fully experience everything that is in the river, in the present, even though it is eternal. For the believer, the eternal life given by Christ begins now (John 4: 1-42). One's salvation covers all aspects of their life (mind, body, soul and history). The world may dismiss the godly life, and I understand their attitude, it is not an easy road. But, it is a good road (1 Tim 6:6). In fact, there is no better.
Pray with me..., Holy God, we take a moment to humble ourselves, quiet ourselves, before You. The many cares of this life stream through us each and every moment, we let them pass, as we immerse ourselves into Your peace. A peace that clarifies so much. Bless our loved ones, we pray, in accordance with their needs. And yes, bless our church, so we can be the church You want us to be in Jesus name, Amen.
God's peace,
Pastor Brian
