I hope you are getting deeper insights by comparing Scripture with Scripture as I am! It is so interesting to look at the book of James within the context of Acts and the Old Testament, for James would have been steeped in the Old Testament. The great controversy of James, as we have seen, is the accusation that he advocated salvation by works. Next week we will see this very same James preaching the gospel in Acts.
What James teaches is put so well by Luther.
In James 5, James quoting the Bible he knew so well –the Old Testament. Think of it: 66 books written over many centuries, many continents and from many cultures by, for the most part, those who had no connect with one another. Yet it is one story, and the same repeated teachings?
Why?
Our Lord is the author.
Sunday:
- How have you experienced the presence of God this week?
Monday: James 5:1-6
2. Make 5 observations.
3. What particularly stands out to you and why?
4. How does Malachi 3:5 teach the same theme?
5. Compares James 5:4 to Genesis 4:10. What do you learn from this?
6. How does Hebrews 12:24 bring the gospel out of these passages?
Tuesday: James 5:7-12
7. Make 5 observations.
8. What particularly stands out to you and why?
9. Read Ezekiel 14:1-5 and explain the sin beneath all sins. Can you give an example from your life?
10. Read Ezekiel 14:12-14 and also 14:19-20. What do you learn from this?
11. How does this parallel James 5:11?
Wednesday: James 5:12
Growing up my father always told me, “You don’t have appointments, you have commitments.” He stressed how important my word was and I’ve never forgotten it.
12. Meditate on this verse and explain James’ warning.
13. How would you apply it? Do you live this way?
14. Find the parallel in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount.
15. Find the parallel in Jesus parable in Matthew 21:28-32.
16.Why must we be so cautious about making vows or promises according to Ecclesiastes 5:1-2? Application?
Thursday: James 5:13-19
17. Make an observation for each verse.
18. What stands out to you and why?
19.Read 1 King 17-18. What do you learn about Elijah?
20. What encouragement do we find in James 5:17-18?
21. What questions do you have to ask your sisters from this passage?
Friday: Tara Leigh Cobble
22. Watch Day 53 in New Testament or click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHmiSDrJAec&t=197s
23. What stands out and why?
Saturday: Share your God Shot!
75 comments
Sunday:
1. How have you experienced the presence of God this week?
Dee, first of all, I appreciate what you said about the 66 books having only 1 author, that is our Lord! He has chosen everything that’s in it. Today, our pastor’s passage was Acts 20:1-12, which included the story of a boy named, Tychicus, who fell out of a third story window! What the? Why is it included in the Bible?
I was on the edge of my seat wondering where the pastor would take the story. I appreciated his take that when the church faced this seemingly sad event, that God provided a miracle through Paul. He then applied it to our lives, to our church; that when we might feel like “death” is present among us, God is still with us, and He will provide whatever we need. Tychicus lived and the people “were comforted”.
I have to keep in mind that this was the NT church-a long time ago. God deemed it fit to do miracles through human beings. It is a mystery but we know this truly happened. Forgive my rabbit trailing.
My garden has been the source of time with God. Being a trial and error gardener has allowed me opportunities to learn the how to’s and to bask in what is before me. I stand in awe at the beauty of God’s creation. There is nothing like a real calendula flower or the heady smell of basil or dill. They bring such delight to the senses; Psalm 8 comes to mind. I also had seen some sprinkling of beetles on my tomatoes but they seemed to have left the plants after being sprayed with soapy water. I wonder if beetles will be in heaven. “No eyes have seen nor ears have heard what God has in store for us.” Even now, there is much that He has for each of us!
Bing, what a lovely view you have of the eternal impact on our world, from the author of the Word, to the worker of miracles, to the author of the beauty in your garden. I love your sense of wonder about beetles in heaven. Even now, he has much for each of us. Such a beautiful outlook. Thank you.
I love your entire post, Bing. What lovely reminders that God is our Creator, Miracle Maker and Ruler of all. I love what Chris wrote about your sense of wonder. Such a beautiful way to start a week. God has always been with us and is here today. Thank you for this blessing!
I too loved Bing’s entire post.
Bing, Yes I concur with the others about your post. Delightful to read. 😊
We had a guest speaker at our church yesterday morning and his sermon was about his experiences with gardening. He made a number of analogies to the Christian life. You would have greatly appreciated his thoughts.
2. Make 5 observations.
There is a warning to rich people. There will be terrible troubles ahead.
They have hoarded their wealth.
The things they have hoarded are rotting away.
The workers have been cheated by the wealthy.
God hears the cries of the workers.
3. What particularly stands out to you and why?
There’s great emphasis put on just how much wealth has been accumulated and how it is not worth anything. I look around to see how fortunate I am with my own wealth.
4. How does Malachi 3:5 teach the same theme?
It speaks of the justice that will be delivered by the Lord.
Laura, I see this passage as not so much a knock on wealth as what is done with it. The wealthy who abuse their blessings rather than use it to bless others are the ones being called out. Abel gave the first fruits to the Lord, but Cain kept back from the Lord, etc. Also, the emphasis on those who are cheated being remembered and avenged by the Lord.
Sunday:
How have you experienced the presence of God this week? I agree with Bing, that my garden is a place where I can find peace and enjoy the wonders of God’s creation. I am growing snapdragons for the first time this year. I am enjoying their beauty on my kitchen table. This week I will need to be careful to attend it in the early morning hours with the heat wave coming. I wonder at the extremes in the weather and how we must trust God in these things. We are indeed at his mercy! This past week we learned that our son who lost his daughter 3 years ago is now expecting twins! We have all been amazed at this blessing. I didn’t know what to think when I shared the news with a friend who has twins and he said, “I wouldn’t wish twins on anybody-but congratulations.” His grievance was about the lack of sleep the first 6 months. At any rate, the Lord is keeping me close by giving me his promises to hold onto. I hear them in my mind and the bible studies I’m doing and in music. I do truly appreciate the ways in which our studies here with Dee have stretched us and helped us grow. This week looks like another great week of challenge. Thank you, Dee.
Thank you, Chris. There are times I wonder if I’m being a good steward of time and money with this blog, so encouragement means a lot. I would also so miss this group if I stopped!
Dee, I was just thinking this morning about the work, time and money of keeping this blog going. I pray God will make it clear to you in the future but it truly has been a valuable ministry and a great blessing to many. Definitely to me.
Oh Dee, I can’t imagine the time you take to pray, listen, hear and act with what God puts on your heart, but I sure do appreciate you being a faithful steward of God’s Word and your gift of teaching. I know I step away at times, but think of all of you when I’m gone, but I also know that I can step back in at any time and have good bible-based teachings again.
Congratulations, Chris! How wonderful and exciting for your son and DIL.
Congratulations Chris, on this sweet news. What a beautiful blessing! I have twin cousins and they are still best friends and live close to one another.
I wrote my blessing from God for the week before I read Dee’s comments. Oh, this Blog is such a life line for me. You have each blessed my life in so many ways. Oh,Dee, I will pray that God will speak to your heart and encourage you. Even the days I miss, I go back and read the posts. I feel like you all are such close friends, I would miss you terribly. ( I was even thinking this morning, what a small world this has become….years ago in our school class at Church, a husband was from Broken Bow, Nebraska.😊 His wife, now in Oregon, is one of my closest friends. )
Congratulations Chris! And yes Dee, you are a wonderful leader and Bible teacher ♥️. Thank you for all these years. I also appreciate everyone here. Thank you all for being so good to me.
Chris, such bittersweet news for you and your family. But lack of sleep will be such a gift in the end.
6. How does Hebrews 12:24 bring the gospel out of these passages?
God was the avenger of righteous Abel, but Jesus is the mediator for us with God. I admit I had to look into commentaries and do not have a full grasp of this passage yet. I typed answers to the previous questions and it all got lost, so I will have to come back to this.
Another funeral this week for a friend’s grandson who was killed in a tragic accident. The weight of this world is heavy this season. This is the fourth funeral in a short time.
I’m so sorry, Chris. This life is full of trouble.
So much sadness, Chris. Dear Lord, You are a God of comfort and peace. Please comfort all the families and friends who are going through this time of grief. We know that it won’t end with the funeral, but You are there all the time and will continue to be there in the days ahead. I pray that hearts turn to You. Thank You, Holy Spirit for Your abiding presence. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Oh, Chris. This is heartbreaking. Amen to Bev’s beautiful prayer. I pray that many will turn to Jesus. I pray for God’s presence and peace be with this family at this difficult time.
Thank you, all. I was greatly encouraged by the strong faith demonstrated by the immediate family. ❤️
Sunday:
How have you experienced the presence of God this week?
—This past week has been a whirlwind of trying to decide and finalize buying a home in Lincoln. Today we travel back down to hopefully make an offer and sign papers to that end. We have been in much prayer seeking God’s direction and trying to let Him shape our thinking.
I am feeling my age and the many aches that come with it. It feels a bit overwhelming to face the physical aspects of a move. Packing up a whole household of belongings and sorting through and dispensing with many extras that just don’t need to move with us is emotional, mental and physical work. Especially after 36 years in one place. But yet God is in the middle of this move and not far away. A big factor is the very settled peace we have that this is His decision and we are comfortable that it is a good decision. He has affirmed that for us and that has come much through prayer. I just couldn’t do this without Jesus. I am so grateful for his presence. 💕
Bing, once I am a bit settled we will have to figure out a time to meet. You are welcome in my home anytime, when I have one. 😄
But I would be glad to drive half way to meet you too.
Bev, I am praying for you, as you follow Jesus on this move. I love reading all that He is doing, as He walks though this with you and Terry. He is so faithful and I think back to all that happened nearly 2 years ago, when I moved to the other side of the country from the my place of comfort since college and marriage. I have hard days, but I see His hand daily in everything. Praying for your current church and Dee’s church.
Praying for you Bev. I can’t imagine what it must be like to pack up; deciding what should go and what should stay. As you said…emotional and physical. 🙏🙏
Monday: James 5:1-6
2. Make 5 observations. 1. Warning to rich men, mourn for future misery 2. Your wealth is corrupt (worthless) 3. You have piled up treasure (money) for your future 4. You have cheated your employees of their wages, keeping it for yourself 5. You have led a life devoted to your own pleasure and condemned the righteous man
3. What particularly stands out to you and why? This whole passage stands out to me, because James is talking to wealthy men WITHIN the church community. James reminds me that it is easy to rely on money, live to please myself, and ignore the poor.
4. How does Malachi 3:5 teach the same theme? There will be a future judgement by the LORD when earthly wealth will not protect you,, and how you have treated others (employees, widows, poor) will be punished.
5. Compares James 5:4 to Genesis 4:10. What do you learn from this? The LORD hears the cries and sees the plight of the oppressed/murdered, and He WILL judge/punish those who commit those acts.
6. How does Hebrews 12:24 bring the gospel out of these passages? Abel’s blood cried out for vengence, but the blood of Jesus covers us with forgiveness and peace.
1. How have you experienced the presence of God this week?
I have felt God’s presence so much through reading the posts on our blog. It gives me such joy just to see how God has connected our lives, from so many parts of the country, in such deep and meaningful ways. It is wonderful just to see those, who are super busy and doing this silently, pop up with a sweet comment. I love seeing God working constantly on connecting and reconnecting His children. I am praying for God’s hand on so many churches that are struggling right now.
I love this, dear Patti.
Thank you for prayers for churches, Patti. Our church is in crisis as we speak. It is painful and sad. ♥️
5. Compares James 5:4 to Genesis 4:10. What do you learn from this?
I don’t understand the connection. One speaks of the workers who aren’t being paid well for their work and the other is the killing of Abel by Cain; how his blood covers the ground. I guess both are cries to the Lord for help?
6. How does Hebrews 12:24 bring the gospel out of these passages?
Instead of the crying out, it is forgiveness that covers it all. This is the gospel.
Both are cries for justice. Does that help? And Christ’s blood cries for justice too — that our sin has been covered.
2. Make 5 observations
Priorities are important to God; how you earn and handle your wealth is important to Him
What you do with your wealth, shows much about your character and your attitude toward God
Seeking and making wealth by using the less fortunate is greed and sin
The real wealth of this world is not found in gold, pleasure or hoarding things, those things are not eternal riches.
Those who use their riches for selfish reason will face judgment for their greed
3. What particularly stands out to you and why?
We are not here for our own glory and to fulfill all of our selfish desires. We are not to make our wealth by oppressing the less fortunate.Making ourselves the center of things is not God’s way. We to use our talents, resources and money for blessing others and drawing them to know Jesus. The real wealth are the eternal things, which cannot be seen…how we love God and use His gifts to show His love to others
4. How does Malachi 3:5 teach the same theme?
Those who oppress those who are vulnerable will face judgment from God.
5. Compares James 5:4 to Genesis 4:10. What do you learn from this?
Those who gain, at the expense of another will face God’s judgment. It is God’s riches that you have been given, gain it fairly and use it wisely.
6. How does Hebrews 12:24 bring the gospel out of these passages?
I am not sure about this ~ In Genesis, Abel’s blood cried out for vengeance, but Jesus paid the price for all of our sins, by giving His blood on the Cross. We are to treat our riches, as gifts from God and use them for His purposes; He gave us the Real gift of eternal life, if we ask forgiveness for our sins.
Keller explains that both are a cry for justice — Abel’s blood for Cain’s sin and Christ’s blood for our sin. Hebrews calls it a “better word.”
I love that, Dee! Thank you! It makes good sense!
I loved that too, Patti.
7. Make 5 observations.
Be patient waiting for Gods’ return.
Be courageous in the waiting.
Don’t grumble about each other. You will be judged.
Look to the prophets for patience.
Endurance is key in the waiting. The blessing will come.
Don’t take an oath by heaven or earth.
8. What particularly stands out to you and why?
What is this, ”don’t take an oath” business? Don’t take an oath to be patient? To read my Bible? To what? I must be missing what they mean by the word oath. Can someone enlighten me?
Jesus says our word should be enough and we don’t need to strengthen it with an oath, or a vow, or a promise — all meaning the same thing. See why in Ecclesiastes 5:4-6 and let me know your thoughts. Shows why marriage vows are so serious.
Thank you for adding this verse, Dee. It helps clarify it. This is my take on the verse….
Ecclesiastes says that We need to keep the vows we make, for these vows are also made to God. God takes no delight in a fool, who gives a vow or promise, with no intent to keep it or to take it seriously. God wants few words, but meaningful words from us. Keep it simple; a vow to someone is also a promise to God.
Agreed. We need to be careful with our words.
That helped! Thank you.
7. Make 5 observations.
We are to be patient
We are to strengthen our hearts
We are not to complain about others or judge others
We need to endure suffering, as other believers have done
Do not use God’s name or a sacred object in a flippant way to guarantee your word is good. This was in my footnotes and I thought it was good.
8. What particularly stands out to you and why?
It can be very hard to endure suffering of any kind and we all experience it. We are called to turn to the Lord, and wait patiently, while living in His will. It is not always easy to do that in this world. But we are to depend on Him, one day at a time, for the Lord is compassionate and merciful.
9. Read Ezekiel 14:1-5 and explain the sin beneath all sins. Can you give an example from your life?
We give our thoughts to our idols constantly and this overrides our time with God, our dependence on Him and our worship of Him. I always love what Tim Keller said about this: What do you think about in your quiet time or down time, while you are waiting for an appointment? Is it God? Whatever it is, it is one of your idols.We need to reorder our loves. We must love God above everything He has given us.
10. Read Ezekiel 14:12-14 and also 14:19-20. What do you learn from this?
We are each responsible for our own righteousness. When we meet our Heavenly Father, we cannot count another’s righteousness. We are responsible for our thoughts and the loves of our hearts, and God knows them, even if we will not admit them. He is returning and He can take me home at any time. I need to have the loves of my heart in the right order every day.
11. How does this parallel James 5:11?
The Lord is compassionate and merciful. He knows our hearts. We cannot control our circumstances, only 0ur reactions to them. It is a full time job in this world at this time. So many are trying to turn us to another Jesus. My former church is struggling internally too. Our beloved pastor left the church, over disagreement with the Elders. He was very gracious, but I feel the elders may have been influenced by the world. So many churches in the Seattle are have changed dramatically. His last message was the importance of having Jesus as the center of the church. All of our churches need prayer and Jesus.
It IS our full time job in this world!
Amen! Yes!
I like your footnote, Patti, about swearing by something to give our words added weight. So true.
Sunday:
1. How have you experienced the presence of God this week? – My friend has been having a ton of issues with her leg to the point of the doctors having to take out her kneecap. There have been at least 13 surgeries on that leg alone and infection after infection. She has no quality of life at this point. I’ve been praying for her to come to terms with that and for her heart to line up as well. I talked to her last night, and she is 95% there and said that she is most likely going to tell the doctor to just take her leg. She is tired and frustrated and just wants her life back. She sounded at peace about this decision and understands that since last October she has been in and out of the hospital with surgeries and cannot even enjoy being outside with her flowers. Her name is Valerie and if she comes to mind, please pray for her to see the outcome of her decision will allow her to once again enjoy life on the outside of her home. God is good and is bringing her peace about her decision.
Oh, Julie. I am so sorry for your dear friend, Valerie. I will pray for her.
I will pray Julie. This is a sad situation for sure. 🙏🙏🙏
Father, please give Valerie your peace in the midst of these storms. May she sense Your presence. Give doctors wisdom. In Jesus Name I pray.
Same to you, Chris! Happy 4th to all! 250 years!
Looking at some comments for prayers and I thought I could catch up this way:
Chris, Praying for your back pain to ease up. And another funeral!
Julie, for your friend Val-such a hard decision for her leg.
Laura- keeping our vows-yes!
Patti-praying for our struggling churches
Bev-your move. When we moved, we have been in one house for 28 years so I understand to some degree.
Cheryl Ann- your thoughts on swearing and also the idol of control! Ugh-I struggle with that, too.
Dee- your stewardship of this blog. I am one of those who are forever grateful for you and your ministry here. This is quite an undertaking and only God can lead, provide, and sustain.
Monday: James 5:1-6
2. Make 5 observations. – 1. The rich will have miseries come upon them. 2. Their riches will rot and their garments will become worn. 3. They are fraudulent and withhold the pay from the laborers. 4. Their fraud has reached the ears of the Lord. 5. They condemned and murdered the righteous person.
3. What particularly stands out to you and why? – Money can be a good thing and we all need it, but when we put money first, it becomes a crutch to us and we start to sin and hide things. We begin to sin.
4. How does Malachi 3:5 teach the same theme? – God sees what we do and how we act and will come near to those who oppress the hired worker in his wages.
5. Compares James 5:4 to Genesis 4:10. What do you learn from this? – We can think that we are hiding our sins from God, but he sees and knows it all. Nothing will be hidden from Him, and we will pay the consequences that come along with our sins.
6. How does Hebrews 12:24 bring the gospel out of these passages? – No shed blood, no hidden sins will ever be able to outnumber the sacrifice and the blood of Jesus that was shed on the cross for us. He overcame all of it because he loves us.
Tuesday: James 5:7-12
7. Make 5 observations. – 1. We need to be patient like the farmer. 2. We need to prepare our hearts for the coming Lord. 3. We should not grumble against each other, so we are not judged. 4. We need to look throughout scripture to see those who suffered and how they endured. 5. We will be considered blessed with we are steadfast.
8. What particularly stands out to you and why? – We are being warned that there will be suffering, but we are also encouraged to not give up, to stay steadfast in the Lord and be patient. He will come and deliver in His time.
9. Read Ezekiel 14:1-5 and explain the sin beneath all sins. Can you give an example from your life? – What I get out of these verses is that we sin by holding on to our idols and think it’s not a big deal, but it is just the beginning if we don’t put a stop to it. We sin and still want the Lord to be with us. We hang on to our idols and put them first and when we do this, there is no room for God in our hearts because they are taking up space in our hearts that is meant for God. Lately for me and sadly it is randomly scrolling through Facebook. I don’t even really see what I’m scrolling through but will find myself suddenly realizing how much time I took instead of jumping on this blog and doing my bible study or picking up a book that I’m going through with a young lady at church. My priorities are off and I do the things I shouldn’t be doing, when I should be spending time with God.
10. Read Ezekiel 14:12-14 and also 14:19-20. What do you learn from this? – God is the only one that can save us from ourselves. We can be righteous and do the right things, but our faith and trust need to be in the Lord, the one and only path to salvation.
11. How does this parallel James 5:11? – When we go through things, God will be the one to provide the comfort and strength we need to get through it. He is compassionate and merciful.
Tuesday James 5:7-12
7. Make 5 observations. 1. Be patient unto the coming of the Lord. 2.A farmer waits with patience for the produce/fruit waiting for rain to water the crops. 3. Be patient, stand firm, for the coming of the Lord is near. 4. Do not complain (judge, argue, etc) against the brethren, which is sinful, and the judege (Lord) hears and sees all you say/do. 5. The prophets of old, and Job, are examples of enduring suffering 6. Do not swear/oaths by anything. let your answers be a simple yes or no.
8. What particularly stands out to you and why? Verse 12 stood out because it says the exact opposite of what is common practice today. How many times do we hear the phrase, “_____ by God!” “Not on God’s green earth!” “I swear on my mother’s grave!” “Oh my God!” James says in One verse what Jesus said in Matt. 5″33-37. Jesus gives the added reason that God is the ruler of heaven, earh, and Jerusalem (all mankind). I see the swearing/oaths as a way that Satan has been able to diminish the reverence we should have for God. It’s beome commonplace, even among some believers. 🙁
9. Read Ezekiel 14:1-5 and explain the sin beneath all sins. Can you give an example from your life? The sin of heart idols, anything that would take precedence over the Lord in your life. In my life an idol was (and still crop\s up) is control. I used to make excuses for it; my father was an alcoholic-home life could be chaotic-I tried to control things as an adult as a result of not having any control as a child. Although those things are true, it does not excuse my behavior now as a child of God indwelt by the Holy Spirit. A very recent example is this morning in the kitchen. I was trying to organize a lower cabinet when my husband came to get another cup of coffee next to where I was standing. Although I didn’t say anything, I was thinking, “Doesn’t he see me standing here? Couldn’t he wait until I’m finished?” Pride, I wanted control, waanting him to do things the way I wanted.
10. Read Ezekiel 14:12-14 and also 14:19-20. What do you learn from this? If God chooses to punish a land/nation/people for their sinful, no one can prevent it. The example the LORD gives is that even Noah, Daniel, and Job (righteous men) would not deter God.
11. How does this parallel James 5:11? In Ezekial God chooses to punish the wicked. Parallel to that is James and the example of Job (righteous) who endured much suffering, but in the end the Lord was merciful and blessed him.
Your answer to 8 is sobering, Cheryl.
Funny story: When my daughter Sally was 7 she slammed her hand in the car door. I said, “Oh my God!” Really, I was praying, but she said,
“I am in more pain because of your swearing than by what just happened!”
Out of the mouths of babes… It pained me, when I was working at school, to hear even 5 year olds say, “Oh my God!” I started saying, “Are we praying now?” (a response I learned from another teacher). Soon the students started to correct each other, so that I did not hear the phrase as often. They knew in my room (small group intervention) you did not say that. Being in a public school, I could not tell them about the Lord, but I hoped they learned something if it was only that Mrs. Fleury was different from other people.
Just as an aside, teaching in a Christian school may be more comfortable, but if all the Christian teachers left public schools, what would happen? It would be like turning the public school over to Satan completely.
I so agree with you, Cheryl, about the importance of Christian teachers in Public schools. What a blessing you were to many children and a great witness to other teachers. I can imagine it was stressful. There were 5 or 6 Christian principals in the school district where my husband first taught. They were constantly targeted and criticized by admin., especially for doing Christians Christmas Carols at the Christmas Program. The stress became so much that my husband went back to the classroom and finally retired, as soon as he had 30 years in. He spent the last 19 years of his career at a Christian school, where he mentored many trouble teens through his drama program. Lots of non Christian kids in Christian schools too.
9. Read Ezekiel 14:1-5 and explain the sin beneath all sins. Can you give an example from your life?
An idol of any sort is the problem. I think the worst of mine (there are more than I can divulge…ugh) is idol-ing my children, then body image.
10. Read Ezekiel 14:12-14 and also 14:19-20. What do you learn from this?
God is powerful, and He is the only Savior. The three men (Noah, Daniel, and Job) were faithful to God, therefore they were righteous. No one else had their faith in all three situations.
11. How does this parallel James 5:11?
Being steadfast means that they persisted in their faith regardless of their circumstances. This is precisely what Job, Daniel, and Noah did too. God will bless those who have this quality.
12. Meditate on this verse and explain James’ warning.
Dee explained this above to me. We should be good for our word. We don’t need to make any other vow.
13. How would you apply it? Do you live this way?
I do try to live this way. If someone asks me to do something I do it even if it takes me a while to get it done.
14. Find the parallel in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount.
I think it must be the “justice” verse.
“God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied.”
Matthew 5:6 NLT
Thursday: James 5:13-19
17. Make an observation for each verse. Suffering? Pray Cheerful? Sing/praise the Lord Sick? Ask elders to pray for you. That prayer offered in faith (elders/sick man) shall heal, and the Lord will raise him from his sickbed. Admit faults to one another and pray for one another (for grace, strength, help, healing); the fervent, insistent prayer of a righteous man is powerful. Elijah was a person just like us, he prayed earnestly that it might not rain, and it didn’t rain for 3 1/2 years. He prayed again and it did rain. If a brother/sister strays from the truth and someone helps to bring them back to the Lord, you have helped save the erring one from death, their sins will be forgiven.
18. What stands out to you and why? Verse 16 “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”
This underscores our need to meet with and pray for each other. People do not mention faults/spiritual needs publicly (other than illness/physical problem) but will do so when asked individually in a small setting. It’s so important to build relationships/trust among sisters, so that we can share our struggles openly and get prayer support.
That’s one of the things I SO APPRECIATE ABOUT THIS BLOG, Dee. You encourage us to open up and we pray for each other. It may not be a voiced/written prayer, but we all feel the support/encouragement from each other.
19.Read 1 King 17-18. What do you learn about Elijah? Elijah was a prophet, a man that heard from the Lord and relayed the words of the Lord to the people. He was a man of strong faith,and Elijah had an unwavering trust/faith that the LORD heard and would grant his requests.
20. What encouragement do we find in James 5:17-18? James points out that Elijah was not any different from us, just a man, and he prayed for miracles and the LORD did what Elijah requested. The encouragement I see is that the Lord answers prayer.
21. What questions do you have to ask your sisters from this passage? In context James 5:16 is talking about physical problems and healings, but I realize that I have taken it further in my answer to #18. Is that wrong?
Thanks so much Cheryl!
That reminds me is it Sharon and Jim’s 50th today! Lord, please bless them mightily this day and for many years and on their trip to Alaska next month!
Thank you Dee! It’s actually tomorrow 7/3, but what’s one day 😜! I appreciate you and everyone here! ❤️
Happy Anniversary to you and Jim, dear Sharon! May God give you many more years together! What a blessing! Love seeing you her!
Happy Anniversary, Sharon. Many blessings for a lovely day.
HAPPY HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TODAY!!!
WHEN I LOOK AT YOU I SEE LUKE 1:50 AND HOW BLESSED YOU BOTH WERE TO HAVE THE PARENTS YOU DID AND THE MARRIAGES THEY HAD! (AT LEAST I KNOW THAT IS TRUE OF JIM) AND HOW I PRAY YOUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN WILL TURN TO HIM FULLY.
Happy anniversary Sharon! 50 years! Wow! May God continue to bless you and your family.
Today would have been my mom’s 99th birthday as well. It’s so hard to believe that she died 12 years ago.
Happy 50th anniversary, Sharon and Jim! Wow-praise the Lord!
Love all your points, Cheryl. I agree about this blog, Dee. It is a safe and trusted place to ask for prayer, spoken and in spoken. I, too, appreciate each one of you! Precious sisters in Christ.
15. Find the parallel in Jesus parable in Matthew 21:28-32.
The first son said he wouldn’t and then he did it anyway. The second son said he would but then didn’t do what he said he would. The second son didn’t keep his word. He wasn’t good do his word.
The tax collectors and prostitutes believed John the Baptist, whereas the teachers and leaders did not.
16.Why must we be so cautious about making vows or promises according to Ecclesiastes 5:1-2? Application?
God is all knowing, and we are not, so we need to keep our mouths quiet as we approach Him. It’s a humbling of ourselves before Him. In prayer, we can be more cognizant of asking Him what we should/can do instead of demanding our list of requests. We should then wait for the answer with patience.
Love your thoughts on 15, Laura. So true.
Growing up my father always told me, “You don’t have appointments, you have commitments.” He stressed how important my word was and I’ve never forgotten it.
12. Meditate on this verse and explain James’ warning.
James is condemning the using your words and oath to back your character.
13. How would you apply it? Do you live this way?
An oath is like a promise based on words, but no history or behavior. Our faith, integrity and the way we treat others, determines our character, which sustain us. If we are of good character, no oath is needed.
14. Find the parallel in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount.
Matthew 5:34-37 – Jesus is speaking of having integrity, a pure heart and being righteous, so there is no need of an oath. An oath was something used by the Pharisees to guarantee their word. An oath from a dishonest person is meaningless anyway.
15. Find the parallel in Jesus parable in Matthew 21:28-32.
The first son, who said “no”, later repented and was I obedient. The promise of the second son was to please the father, but he was disobedient. Real obedience is shown by what you do, that you show up, and not by empty promises to do something (if it benefits you) and not following through. Jesus is comparing the sinners who humbly repent and follow God’s Word with the arrogant, who say pious words and put on a show, but are filled with self interest and they are have no intent to follow God.
16.Why must we be so cautious about making vows or promises according to Ecclesiastes 5:1-2? Application?
Listen and seek God’s way; be cautious with your words and promises, speak with integrity, say less rather than more, keep your word.
Insincere religious practices, are showy rituals, but empty offerings to God. What we do and how we live do speaks so much louder than words.
Friday _ TLC
What caught my attention today was Tara’s repetition of the word “wholeness.” God uses our brokeness (thru trials, etc) to produce wholeness, or perfection, in us. James gives many, many examples of what a Christian life should look like, but we cannot manufacture wholeness in and of ourselves. The Holy Spirit leads (through scripture such as James), and we are to follow (obey).
Catching up after a busy week of summer fellowship with our kids at church!
Monday: James 5:1-6
1. Make 5 observations.
Despite their riches, James addressed the miseries that are coming to them, and they should respond by weeping. V.1
Wealth rots and whatever else it buys one. V. 2
What good are silver and gold if they are corroded? V.3
The rich are unjust and unfair in their dealings with their workers. V.4
The Lord hears the cries of ill-treated workers.
Indulgent, luxurious, and fattened speak of an excessive lifestyle at the expense of others.
2. What particularly stands out to you and why?
Rich people are warned because of what they do. The Lord sees and hears the oppressed, and this warning speaks of accountability to the righteous Judge of all.
3. How does Malachi 3:5 teach the same theme?
4. God will come near for judgment on sorcerers, adulterers, perjurers, against who defraud laborers of their wages…
5. Compares James 5:4 to Genesis 4:10. What do you learn from this?
The cries of defrauded workers for their wages are akin to Abel’s blood crying from the ground. It is as if when one defrauds their employees of just wages, one “kills” them as well—no money to buy what they need, especially food, which can lead to sickness and possibly death.
6. How does Hebrews 12:24 bring the gospel out of these passages?
Jesus cries out on behalf of the downtrodden and the oppressed. His death and the shedding of His blood brought true justice.
Tuesday: James 5:7-12
7. Make 5 observations.
We need to be patiently waiting on the Lord; the Lord is coming.
We need to strengthen our hearts; His coming is near.
Do not complain about one another. The judge is at the door.
We are called to endure amidst suffering.
Let your yes be yes and your no be no.
8. What particularly stands out to you and why?
The call to patience, strength, and endurance is possible when we wait on the Lord.
1. Read Ezekiel 14:1-5 and explain the sin beneath all sins. Can you give an example from your life?
Idolatry. The idols of approval and control are still a challenge with me, but the Lord has been helping me deal with them when they come.
2. Read Ezekiel 14:12-14 and also 14:19-20. What do you learn from this?
Each of us is responsible to God for our actions and our responses to his call for repentance. We cannot inherit somebody’s righteousness, nor would they cover us; only Jesus can do that for us.
3. How does this parallel James 5:11?
Job’s perseverance was blessed by God; only on our own can we obtain our blessedness before God. We are accountable to only One.
Saturday
I’ve come to see that there is so much more to the book of James than is first seen, and that it is full of wisdom for us. True faith will naturally produce a life of good works. This kind of life (transformed) is a true mark of a Christian. Although james does not mention it, it’s only through the power of the Holy Spirit that this is possible. Which brings us back to Scripture interpreting Scripture, and our need to study the whole Bible.
Oh so good Cheryl! “I’ve come to see that there is so much more to the book of James than is first seen, and that it is full of wisdom for us. True faith will naturally produce a life of good works. A transformed life is the true mark of a Christian.” So well said!
Wednesday: James 5:12
Growing up my father always told me, “You don’t have appointments, you have commitments.” He stressed how important my word was, and I’ve never forgotten it.
12. Meditate on this verse and explain James’ warning.
Let your yes be yes and your no be no.
13. How would you apply it? Do you live this way?
At times, I can be wishy-washy because of my spontaneous character. I have “promised” something before and then not followed through. The verse that comes to mind is “be quick to listen and slow to speak…” reminding myself not to jump into saying yes when I am not sure or have not thought and prayed about a matter.
14. Find the parallel in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount.
Verses 33-37 in Matthew 5. This was insightful: Anything beyond your yes as yes and your no as no is from the evil one.
15. Find the parallel in Jesus parable in Matthew 21:28-32.
The parable of the two sons, where both initially said one thing and did not follow through, although the first one changed his mind and did what the father asked him to do.
16.Why must we be so cautious about making vows or promises according to Ecclesiastes 5:1-2? Application?
I can be a fool when there are many words from my mouth (“when there are many words, sin is not absent” I guard my mouth especially when I am tired or not feeling good. I believe wisdom tells me to wait, pause, and listen to God to lead me before I make any promises or vows.
Thursday: James 5:13-19
17. Make an observation for each verse.
v. 13 Pray when in trouble; Praise when happy!
v.14 A call for elders to pray for and anoint the one who is sick.
v. 15 Any form of healing is from the Lord: physical illness or forgiveness.
v.16 We confess to one another.
v. 17 Earnest prayers will be heard by God and answered.
v.18 We can pray for rain, and when it comes, I know it is from the Lord.
v. 19 As brothers and sisters in Christ, we are called to help bring back someone who has wandered from the truth. This has to be in the context of a strong relationship between the parties involved.
18. What stands out to you and why?
That we have a responsibility towards our brothers and sisters in Christ.
19.Read 1 King 17-18. What do you learn about Elijah?
Elijah was a powerful and brave prophet for God. Amidst his calling, Elijah had his ups and downs, provided for by God miraculously, used by God to bless a widow and raise her son from the dead, encountered prophets of Baal and Asherah, and killed all of them. He also prayed for rain, which came after many years of drought.
Wow, here we are in the midst of a hot summer. But the rains have come intermittently. I don’t know what it would be like to not have rain for years!
20. What encouragement do we find in James 5:17-18?
I can be confident of an answer to prayer when I am in earnest and can stay confident, however God desires to answer my prayer.
21. What questions do you have to ask your sisters from this passage?
I am kind of confused about how the story of Elijah fits into the discussion. Does this have to do with earnest prayer?
Friday: Tara Leigh Cobble
22. Watch Day 53 in New Testament or click here:
None of us is where we want to be. We live out what we believe in our hearts. He does not want any sin to snatch you out of His hand. Justify means to prove or demonstrate. God already knows what is in our hearts, but humans want belief to be demonstrated to them. At that time, some claimed to believe but did not show a change of heart.
23. What stands out and why?
Our actions justify what is in our hearts. God already knows our hearts, but other humans want to see that we believe through what we do. Amen!
Saturday: Share your God Shot!
God is always calling us to come near to Him, even though we are sinners, or not where we want to be in our walk with Him.
Good evening friends. Happy 4th of July! We had a wonderful celebration with family. I’m enjoying reading through comments and blessed by these immensely. I’ve been experiencing some back pain this week that is keeping me from being able to concentrate on my studies. I’ll try to get back to this soon. In the meantime, I’m praying for you all and listening to the bible app/TLC. Many blessings to you all.
23. What stands out and why?
I am late in completing this week’s’ study. The thing that stands out to me is that we are all sinners. We need to draw near to Him. Thank You Lord.