The Owner's Manual. We're certain we don't need them. But they sure come in handy.
For example, the last time I had my car in for service, the digital clock got scrambled and wasn't showing the correct time. There are two little buttons to set the time. Should be easy to set the clock correctly, right? Maybe for you, but not for me! I messed with it and fussed with it, all to no avail. Finally, I got out the owner's manual, read the short paragraph on "clock," and had the correct time set in two minutes. Thank goodness for the owner's manual!
After doing some study it seems to me that the Epistle of James serves as a manual of sorts for Christian disciples. Over the course of five chapters the brother of Jesus deals with a variety of subjects.
1) How to deal with temptation
2) Hearing the Word of God and putting it into practice
3) Loving your neighbor
4) Putting faith to work through serving others
With James you get nothing but straight talk. He's got no time for those who blame their problems on God or others. He's not impressed by those who "talk the talk" but fail to "walk the walk." Take some time to read James. You'll find yourself being challenged by his words. Read them carefully. They were written by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit so, you might say, these are God's Words to you. Consider them. Pray over them. Identify those areas where growth in faith and obedience is needed. And then ask the Holy Spirit to continue to do His sanctifying work in your heart and soul.
May your reading of James fill you with the wisdom that comes from heaven! (3:17)
