I've fallen a bit behind in posting my devotionals, but this one is from last Monday.
Scripture: James 3:13--4:8
In Proverbs, we learn how the foolish and unrighteous contrast to the wise and righteous in their reactions to hardship. Now we learn how this plays out within the church as a community. The church that James is writing to is caught up in the middle of social upheaval and an uncertainty about how to deal with those changes. James does not specifically indicate what the issues are or which side of those issues he is on, but he reminds everyone of the need for mercy and peace. James also differentiates between earthly and divine wisdom. Earthly wisdom seeks political power and attracts ambition, while divine wisdom is peaceful and "full of mercy."
Conflict itself is seen as the result of foolishness. These conflicts are not born of being correct or of being wise. They result from greed, covetousness and a desire for earthly pleasures over divine wisdom and understanding. No wonder this passage rings so true today.
Prayer: Dear Lord, we submit ourselves to your will and ask for your guidance in ways of peace and mercy. Amen.
Scripture: James 3:13--4:8
In Proverbs, we learn how the foolish and unrighteous contrast to the wise and righteous in their reactions to hardship. Now we learn how this plays out within the church as a community. The church that James is writing to is caught up in the middle of social upheaval and an uncertainty about how to deal with those changes. James does not specifically indicate what the issues are or which side of those issues he is on, but he reminds everyone of the need for mercy and peace. James also differentiates between earthly and divine wisdom. Earthly wisdom seeks political power and attracts ambition, while divine wisdom is peaceful and "full of mercy."
Conflict itself is seen as the result of foolishness. These conflicts are not born of being correct or of being wise. They result from greed, covetousness and a desire for earthly pleasures over divine wisdom and understanding. No wonder this passage rings so true today.
Prayer: Dear Lord, we submit ourselves to your will and ask for your guidance in ways of peace and mercy. Amen.