April 24th, Friday: James 4 - 5

James 4

Of the early church, it was said, 'Behold, how they loved one another!'

Today, people might say, 'Behold, how they compete with one another!'

Why is it sometimes so difficult for God's people to get along?

Well, one thing is selfishness.

The wars among us are caused by the wars within us.

We want to please ourselves – even if it hurts somebody else.

If we're not careful, even our prayers can become selfish.

And then there is the problem of worldliness.

Because Abraham was separated from sin, he was the friend of God.

But Lot was the friend of the world.

And of course, there's pride.

Satan knows how to use pride to defeat you, as he defeated Eve.

Are you laughing, when you should be weeping over your sins?

Are you resisting the devil or resisting the Lord?

Then there's criticism.

One of the easiest ways to hide our sins is to expose the sins of others.

Gossip and slander grieve the Spirit, and divide the family.

God called us to be witnesses, not judges.

And there's boasting.

Life is short and the future unknown – so do the will of God today.

When you make plans, always say, 'If the Lord wills.'

James 5

Now in these last days, before the coming of the Lord – what does God want in our lives?

Let's talk about priorities.

To live only to get wealth is to rob yourself of true riches.

It is to worry instead of worship.

God knows you have needs and He will meet them if you practise what it says in Mathew 6:33.

And we need patience.

If you've sown the right seed, you will eventually reap a harvest of blessings, so be patient.

If others have exploited you – be patient.

The Judge is at the door.

God has the final say, and God has a plan for your life.

All life is lived in seasons.

Perhaps God is preparing you for the next season.

Be diligent!

If you're going through trials, be patient!

God is still on the throne.

Don't forget prayer.

Many kinds of prayer are named here – prayer for the sick, prayer for forgiveness, prayer for the nation, even prayer about the weather.

There's no need that prayer cannot meet and no problem that prayer cannot solve.

Personal concern.

Once again, James emphasizes ministry to individuals.

Can you detect once a fellow believer starts to stray?

Are you truly concerned?

Will you try to help?

Will you wait too long?