James 1 - 8.19.21

Scripture - What stood out?

James 1:13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. (ESV)

Observation - What does it say?

A letter from the apostle James to the 12 dispersed tribes of Israel. 

Understanding - What does it mean?

As a Christian now for going on 4 years (I’m sorry mom, I’m not sure I was saved before then, but I think we could make a strong argument for and against) I have come to place more and more trust in God. And while my faith could already testify to that, my walk also testifies to moments where I appear to lack it. 

‘Can you imagine an all powerful and all knowing God, that had even a speck of evil?’ Pastor Warren posed to our Discover class one night.

‘The thought alone is terrifying,’ he said in his very dry and straightforward manner.

And so as I continue my journey to know God more, to become a better husband, a better father, and a better neighbor I am reminded today that God cannot be tempted by evil and he in turn tempts know one. My approach to relationships has changed vastly over the years and it is my relationship with God that I use as my basis, my foundation for all other human interaction. And so here is my “duh” moment to myself:

God is worthy of my trust.

And aren’t the best relationships built on…

Life Application - How can I apply this to my life today?

I know there are areas of my life I withhold from you Lord because I am afraid. But if you are a purely good Father, a good Shepherd, then I need to trust in your teachings in the bible. And I need to trust when the Holy Spirit speaks to me. Today I pray you give me the courage to own up to my mistakes, and in turn put my trust in You. In the name of Jesus do I pray, amen.

-kenneth lee