Overcoming Temptations
Managing our Speech
The book of James is a very interesting book for maturing Christians (considering all Christians are on their way to Christ-likeness). In this book, I have learned that James doesn’t have the intention to reject Paul’s teachings but rather, tell the gentiles about the practical ways to move forward. For me, the main theme of the book is MATURITY.
Maturity may mean being sensitive not just with God’s voice but with the feelings of people around us as well. Our actions verify the kind of faith we have. Being Christians and ambassadors of God, we need to do well in the eyes of God and men. As I recall God’s great commission to us, “Go and make disciples of all nations.. teaching them to obey.. baptizing them..” – Mt.28, It will be impossible for us to be obeying God without letting other people see that the God we obey should be the God they should solely obey too.
James has also given me the idea that we need to be responsible of what we say as well. As Christians, we are peacemakers, just as our Father in heaven.
Chapter 1 emphasizes that on our way to Christ-likeness, we need to ask God for two important things: Faith to endure and wisdom to understand.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your Faith develops perseverance.”
Problems are inevitable and unpredictable. We are constantly on a defense (and probably offense) while we are in the battleground. James said, “we have to rejoice”, because in the end it will just help us grow better than before.
Problems of temptations will fortify our patience. Like clay, we are being molded by God so as to be formed perfectly in the end. Imperfections are eliminated. Most of us are short-tempered, considering that we are living a fast-paced generation. In this trying time, God wants us to learn how to be patient.
“.. That you may be mature and complete,. Not lacking anything..” We are in the road to Christ-likeness. It is God’s main purpose in our life. God wants us to profit from our trials. Every challenge we overcome, we grow. Through it all, we will reveal how victorious God is in our lives.
SELF-CONTROL- God wants us to be disciplined. “Slow to speak… slow to anger..” We have to be calm and have a relaxed attitude. Most of our problems come from our quick response, without thinking what to do or say. We need to ask for God’s wisdom, and it takes self-control to pause and wait for His provisions.
------
BCCL, Legazpi
GCUM
General Epistles
submitted to Ptr.Greg Evans
