Devotional

This passage is so rich, and I wanted to share another devotional thought on it, following on from last week. James’ intent in this passage was to remind the church that it is not just about listening to the Word of God, but also about doing what it says.

I am sure we have all been guilty of this at one time or another in our lives. We listen to a preaching on the Word or read it at home, and it sounds good. We may even feel inspired, yet walk away without applying it to our lives. James was aware that the church was doing this more than just as a once-off; it had become habitual. They were not exercising their faith, and James says they were, in fact, deceiving themselves.

Verse 27 says: “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”

We still have orphans and widows in our community today, but the point was more about caring for the most vulnerable in society. It seems this church was not exercising its faith by caring for those most in need in their community. Perhaps they were only worried about themselves. Who is vulnerable in our society today?

I am greatly encouraged by the amount of service, love and care that happens within and outside of this church on any given week. It warms my heart and makes this pastor proud of his church. Thank you! I have no doubt it makes God's heart proud as well.

Perhaps you are in a season where you are not providing care or service to others as a follower of Christ. Who is one person you can love, care for and serve in this season of life?

God bless you as you seek Him.

James