How do we seek Jesus? The story of the wise men can give us some direction. God used a sign in nature, the star, to get their attention. God often speaks in a language we understand. These men were astrologists, and God spoke to them through a star. God continues to speak to us through …
As Jesus began His teaching, He spoke of the attitude of the heart. He emphasized the importance of righteous character and how it brings blessings of the Kingdom to the believer. To be righteous means doing what God requires of us. The Pharisees focused on outward appearances, observing the Law, tithing, fasting, and praying with …
Receiving God’s promises entails engaging in God’s plans. Abram had been on a journey of faith in God since he left Ur years before. Genesis 12: 1The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. 2 I will make …
Putting our faith into action is not easy and requires God’s strength. The enemy likes to attack to keep us from fulfilling God’s plan. Perhaps you have experienced this. Be prepared for it to happen again. When the Lord called Abram, He gave him instructions necessary to fulfill his calling, which may have seemed overwhelming. …
In the story of a son healed, we see how the father’s faith was a journey. A government official, probably a Gentile, had traveled sixteen miles to ask help from Jesus, a Jewish teacher. This father was desperate because his son was on the verge of death. He was willing to try anything to have …
For it to be real, belief requires action. We can see this in the story of Jesus healing a son. A government official had come out of desperation. His son was ill and on the point of death. So, he was willing to travel sixteen miles to make a request of Jesus, whom he had …
Following Jesus involves action as the Holy Spirit leads us. As believers, we are to be our Savior’s arms, feet, and voice. Romans 10:15 And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, “How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news! [1] Bringing the …
James explains how to ask for wisdom after describing how to have joy in difficulties. James 1:5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. 6 But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for …
James gives us the solution for immature faith: trials and trouble. James 1:2 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, …
Who was James? The writer of the Epistle of James was the half-brother of Jesus, who became a prominent leader in the church in Jerusalem. James humbly calls himself a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. James wrote this letter during a time of transition. There was both religious and political turmoil …