Maturing Christian

 

    The 12 tribes of the Jewish nation was scattered throughout the world.  James took the time to write to them, to all Christians that scattered(may still scatter) due to persecution.  He wanted them to understand how things had changed.  We all have an opportunity to have a different kind of relationship with God that is not based on rules and regulations, but a true and loving relationship.  No matter what life is telling you, you have a freedom that the world does not understand.

    Persevere through your trials to find joy in all situations in your life.  The testing of our faith is a good thing.  It shows you who you really are and develops maturing to be a complete person in your relationship with Jesus.  

    Pray for wisdom and it will be given abundantly.  As you mature you will realize that you have to go through some difficult times to be come that mature Christian.  It is not a punishment, but a stripping away of things that take away from the person God made you to be.  When you pray you need to have faith.  There is no room for doubt.  Doubt will only destroy the inner peace and make you unstable in your faith.  You will waste a lot of time and energy questioning everything.

    Perseverance leads to blessings and rewards in Heaven.  You don't get everything now.  You have to wait for some pleasures for when you enter the eternal life.  You can live victorious now by acknowledging temptation is not from God, but Satan.  This knowledge helps you understand that it leads down a path of destructive desires that lead to sin if you follow them.  Sin leads to death, so it just is not worth is.

    Do not be deceived.  God is truth.  He gives it to you freely.  All you have to do is to be open to it and receive it.  All truth is in the Bible unmanipulated.  Anyone who manipulates the Bible for any reason is an agent for Satan.  God's Word gives life and freedom.  Lies chain you down and will crush you.  

    To mature as a Christian, you need to be quick to listen and slow to speak or give way to anger.  Rid yourself of all evil that you become aware of in your life.  This takes humility and an honest look at your life.  Trust in God's Word and do not allow anyone make you question it.  

    Focus on your own relationship and growth with God before pointing the finger at anyone.  The comparison game gets you no where in life.  It is as bad as the what if game.  Taking care to work out your own salvation leads to perfect freedom to bless others.  

    Be doers of God's Word and not just absorb the information.  Live out your faith.  Start with keeping a tight reign on your tongue.  It is eager to get you into trouble.  Left without restraint will lead to worthless chatter that pollutes the world.  God's Word is pure.  It is always safe to talk about it and live an honest life.  It leads to faultless talk that brings life to yourself and other people.

James 1