March 10 -- "Dual Waters: Pure or Polluted?"

 

Read James 3

Picture yourself standing at the edge of a serene forest, gazing at a clear, sparkling spring, its waters refreshing and pure. Thirsty, you dip your cup into the spring for a refreshing drink, but what comes out is dark, murky, and foul. How can this stagnant, polluted water come out of the same spring as fresh, pure water?

Now, envision your words as the water that flows from these springs. James 3:10 reminds us that out of the same mouth can come both praise and cursing, challenging us to reflect on the duality and contrasting nature that often exists within us. So often our lips utter words of insult, cursing, disrespect, slander, obscenities, gossip, and harmful sarcasm. How can we, as believers, allow both blessings and curses to flow from the same lips? James declares that these things “ought not to be so.”

Imagine trying to change the quality of water flowing from a spring without addressing the source itself. No matter how much you attempt to filter the water downstream, the impurities will persist if the source remains tainted. Similarly, the words we speak are a reflection of what lies within our hearts. To truly transform our speech, we must begin with a heart change.

Scripture often emphasizes the connection between the heart and the mouth. In Matthew 12:34, Jesus says, "For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." This means that the words we say are a direct overflow of what fills our hearts. If our hearts are filled with negativity, bitterness, or anger, it will inevitably be reflected in our speech. Conversely, when our hearts are filled with love, grace, and kindness, our words will naturally follow suit.

To achieve a lasting change in our words, we need a heart transformation that aligns with the values of Christ. This heart change is not something we can accomplish on our own; it requires a deep, spiritual renewal that only the Holy Spirit can bring about. By inviting the Holy Spirit to work within us, we allow God to cleanse and reshape our hearts, filling them with His love and grace.

As our hearts are renewed, our words will naturally begin to reflect this change. The same mouth that once uttered curses and negativity will become a source of blessing, encouragement, and life. This transformation is a testament to the power of God's grace and the work of the Holy Spirit within us.

Let us commit to seeking a heart change, allowing God's love to fill and overflow from within us. May our words be a reflection of the transformative power of His grace in our lives, uplifting and blessing those around us.

March 9 -- "Your Faith: Dead or Alive?"

 

Read James 2

When a paramedic arrives on the scene of an injury, their first order of business is to check for signs of life. They check for breathing, pulse, responsiveness, pupil reaction, and skin color & temperature to confirm that the spirit is still present in the body. These “vital signs” prove the existence of life.

In the same way, there are spiritual “vital signs” that prove the existence of genuine faith in a person’s life. James calls these signs, “works,” referring to the righteous acts that come from someone who is truly alive in Christ with a genuine faith. In the same way that human vitality proves the presence of the spirit within the body, Christian good works prove the presence of genuine faith. James tells us that faith, like the body, must show evidence of life. If our faith lacks action, growth, and spiritual fruit, it may be as lifeless as a body without a spirit.  So, let’s run a faith check:

Breathing (Prayer & Worship) Just as breathing sustains physical life, prayer and worship sustain spiritual life. Do you inhale God’s presence daily, or is your faith struggling to catch its breath?

Pulse (Desire to Grow in Christ) A strong pulse indicates vitality.  Likewise, a living faith has a hunger for God’s Word, a pursuit of holiness, and a desire to grow in grace. If there’s no thirst for Scripture, no conviction over sin, and no longing to become more like Christ, your faith may be in need of resuscitation.

Responsiveness (Love & Compassion) A responsive body reacts to stimuli. A living faith responds to the needs of others.  Are you moved by the suffering around you, or has your faith become unfeeling and numb?

Pupil Reaction (Spiritual Discernment) Healthy pupils react to light. Does your faith respond to the truth of Scripture, or do you remain unchanged when confronted with God’s Word?

Skin Color & Temperature (Spiritual Vitality) A healthy body has warmth and color. Is your faith vibrant and passionate, displaying the vibrant beauty and colors of Christ?  Or has it grown cold, indifferent, and lifeless?

If any of these signs are weak or missing, it’s time for revival—the process by which spiritual life is renewed, awakened, and revitalized in the heart of the believer. Revival by the Holy Spirit can be likened to the life-saving shock delivered by defibrillator pads to a person's heart, but in the spiritual realm, it’s the Holy Spirit who provides the “charge” that stirs a dead or dormant faith back to life. This all begins by humbling ourselves, repenting, and turning to Him, asking for His Spirit to breathe new life into us.

May the Lord stir within you a renewed hunger for Him. May your faith be vibrant, responsive, and full of life. And may you walk in the fullness of life He desires for you.

March 8 -- "Wisdom For The Asking"

 

Read James 1

Imagine standing before a majestic fountain that flows endlessly with pure, refreshing water, never running dry. This is a powerful metaphor for God's infinite wisdom. His wisdom is inexhaustible, constantly available, and abundantly sufficient to meet all our needs, no matter the complexity of the challenges we face. Just as a fountain refreshes and invigorates those who drink from it, God's wisdom revitalizes our minds and souls, providing clarity, guidance, and peace in the midst of life's uncertainties. It is not a limited resource that we have to ration or compete for; rather, it is an ever-flowing stream, generously offered to all who seek it with a sincere heart.

Are you facing a situation where the right path isn't crystal clear? Perhaps you're wrestling with a tough decision at work, encountering struggles in your relationships, contemplating a significant career move, or seeking financial guidance. Whatever your dilemma, God's wisdom is essential to navigate these challenges.  The best part? It's free, and it’s yours, and God gives it without hesitation!

The term "without reproach" in James 1:5 can be interpreted as "without finding fault" or "without criticizing." In essence, this emphasizes that when we seek wisdom from God, He does not scold or reprimand us for asking. Instead, He is pleased that we are turning to Him for guidance and He willingly provides wisdom without a hint of disapproval or reluctance. God, the ultimate generous giver, is ready to bestow wisdom upon those who seek it. 

Yet, this gift of wisdom demands faith – a heart that trusts God’s response. James cautions that doubting is like being tossed by the wind, rendering us unstable and unreliable. When we allow doubt to take hold, it can lead to “analysis paralysis.”  We find ourselves overanalyzing every option, paralyzed by the fear of making the wrong choice. While a inquisitive mind is integral to seeking wisdom, crippling doubt that prevents us from trusting God's guidance becomes a significant obstacle.

To tap into this divine wisdom, first, recognize that human reasoning and understanding alone are insufficient. Pray earnestly for God's direction.  Next, nurture unwavering faith by strengthening your relationship with God through prayer, study of Scripture, gratitude, obedience, and a supportive community. Fight off any doubts that would immobilize you.  Remember, God is eager to lead you! Finally, remain open to His guidance.  His wisdom may manifest through Scripture, sage advice, a word from a friend, or a gentle nudge in your mind steering you in the right direction.

May the Lord, who is the fount of all wisdom and understanding, fill your hearts with His divine insight and guide your steps with unwavering clarity. As you seek His counsel, may you be blessed with faith that is steadfast, a mind that discerns, and a spirit that embraces His leading.

March 7 -- "Be Watchful – Maranatha!"

 

Read 1 Corinthians 16

Paul's final words to the Corinthians blend practical guidance with heartfelt encouragement. He addresses the struggles within their church, facing moral challenges, doctrinal confusion, immaturity, and a lack of unity and love, while inspiring them to live purposefully in anticipation of Christ's return. His exhortations apply as much to modern day Christ followers as they did to the Corinthian believers.

In verse 13, he says,  "Be Watchful" This urges us to be constantly on the lookout for spiritual dangers and temptations. "Stand firm in the faith" Here, he calls us to hold fast to our Christian beliefs with unwavering determination. "Act like men" This is a call to grow up and mature in our journey with Christ. "Be strong" Here, he reminds us not to live a weak and powerless Christian life, but to draw upon the boundless spiritual strength that comes from relying on the Holy Spirit. Lastly, "let all that you do be done in love" This exhortation encapsulates the essence of the Christian life—our every action should be motivated by God's agapé love.

After underscoring the importance of steadfastness, generosity, and love within the body of Christ, Paul's comments culminate in verse 22 with the powerful exclamation, “O Lord, come!” This phrase, translated from the Aramaic, "Maranatha!", captures the hope and urgency for Christ's return, encouraging believers to live purposefully and faithfully.

The cry of "Maranatha!" serves as a beacon of hope and an expression of eager expectation for the imminent return of Jesus Christ. Just as this expression became the rallying cry for the early Church, it should shape our daily conduct and priorities. In anticipation of Christ's return, we too should cultivate a sense of readiness and purpose. "Maranatha!" is not merely a hopeful wish but a call to action.  It urges us to evaluate our lives: Are we living in a way that anticipates the Lord’s imminent return? Are we loving others with the same love He has shown us?  Are we generous with our time, talents, and treasures, supporting the work of the church and helping those in need?

Let "Maranatha!" be the anthem of your life as you live in the eager anticipation of Christ’s return. Let it inspire you to stand firm in your faith, to be courageous in the face of challenges, to grow in your faith, and to act in love towards everyone. He is coming soon!  Embrace this hope and allow it to influence your decisions, your relationships, and your service to the Lord.

May the Lord grant you a heart that eagerly anticipates His return. May you be filled with His love, strengthened in your faith, and motivated to live each day with purpose and passion. Maranatha! Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus! Amen!

March 6 -- "What Happens When We Die?"

 

Read 1 Corinthians 15:35-58

We’ve all wondered about the afterlife – what happens when we die? It's a mystery to many, but for those who believe in Jesus, the Bible offers remarkable insights. In the final part of 1 Corinthians 15, Paul uses the illustration of planting a seed to reveal astonishing truths about our ultimate triumph over death!

He pictures planting a seed. It appears tiny and lifeless. But just wait! Once it is planted, it transforms into a magnificent plant. You plant a "dead" seed, and soon a flourishing plant emerges. There's no resemblance between the seed and the plant. You'd never guess what a tomato looks like from a tomato seed. Similarly, the dead body we bury and the resurrected body that arises will be vastly different.

When we die, it might seem like the end, but it's actually the beginning of something extraordinary for followers of Christ. In an instant, faster than a twinkle in our eye, God will transform us! Our new bodies won't be clunky, weak, or tainted by sin anymore. Instead, we'll be adorned with our incredible new bodies, perfectly designed for life in Heaven. Imagine, no more sickness, no more pain, just pure joy and wonder!

These new bodies will be unique, like the dazzling stars in the night sky. Each one will shine with God's glory in its own special way. And just as Adam, the first man, was formed from the earth's raw materials, we will be formed from "heavenly raw materials" by Christ, the "second Adam." As we bear His image now, we will reflect His glory in our new forms when He comes for us. Our current bodies could not endure the environment of Heaven unless they're changed, and that change happens in less than a blink of an eye, at the last trumpet call.

Many view death as the finish line—the unbeatable enemy. But through Jesus, death is conquered! It's defeated! No more worries, no more fearing the end. We emerge victorious. As Paul says, 'Oh death, where is your victory?'

Here's the takeaway: Knowing that our earthly bodies are temporary and that we will receive glorified, imperishable bodies should encourage us to focus on eternal things rather than being consumed by temporary struggles or material concerns. Since death has been conquered through Jesus, we don’t have to live in fear of the unknown. Instead, we can live boldly, knowing that what awaits us is far better than anything we experience here.

May the God of resurrection fill your heart with steadfast hope and unwavering joy. May you walk in the confidence that death has been swallowed up in victory, and that what awaits you is beyond all comparison.

March 5 -- "Already, But Not Yet"

 

Read 1 Corinthians 15:21-34

Let’s delve into one of Scripture’s captivating mysteries—the paradox of “already but not yet!” This biblical theme suggests that certain future realities are described as if they have already occurred, even though they aren’t fully visible to us yet. It is a mystery to us that God's plan and promises are both present and future. This intriguing tension reveals a profound truth about God's operation beyond the confines of time. Here are a few key examples that highlight this concept:

Salvation and Sanctification—Already: We’re told that God has already “raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6). Not Yet: However, Paul admits, “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on...” (Philippians 3:12).

The Kingdom of God—Already: “He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son” (Colossians 1:13). Not Yet: But, “Then comes the end when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father” (1 Corinthians 15:24).

Victory Over Death—Already: Jesus “has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel” (2 Timothy 1:10). Not Yet: We still await the day when “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more” (Revelation 21:4).

Eternal Life—Already: “Whoever believes in the Son [already] has eternal life” (John 3:36). Not Yet: “To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life” (Romans 2:7).

God speaks in this way because He exists outside of time. Romans 4:17 tells us, “He calls things that are not as though they are.” He sees the end from the beginning, and when He declares something, it’s as good as done. Embracing the already-but-not-yet perspective teaches us to trust God’s promises with unwavering faith, even when they aren’t yet visible.

We live in the space between the cross and the crown. The ultimate victory has been secured, but the daily battles continue. This paradox should ignite within us a deeper faith, a longing for Christ’s return, and a fervent commitment to live as citizens of the coming kingdom.

So, what are we to do in the meantime? We walk in faith, assured that what God has spoken will come to pass. The promises are sealed, the victory is assured, and we are called to live as though it’s already a done deal—because in God’s reality, it is!

March 4 -- "In Accordance With The Scriptures"

 

Read 1 Corinthians 15:1-20

Who, or what, is steering your life? If our faith and actions are not shaped by the Bible, they will be shaped by something else—culture, feelings, tradition, convenience, or compromise.  

Paul proclaims that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and resurrected "in accordance with the Scriptures." This phrase signifies not only the fulfillment of prophecy but also a call to align our lives with God's Word. Jesus lived, suffered, and triumphed exactly as God had foretold. His life was not steered by human traditions, fleeting emotions, or societal expectations—He walked in perfect obedience to the written Word. Similarly, our beliefs and daily conduct must also be "in accordance with the Scriptures." The Bible is not merely a book we affirm; it is the divine blueprint for how we are to live.

God's Word stands as the ultimate authority, the measure of all truth. In a world where truth is constantly being redefined, many profess faith in Christ yet live outside of Biblical alignment. The call of Scripture is not just to believe in Jesus but to follow Him, ordering every aspect of our lives according to what God has revealed.

We are not called to live by what seems right in our own eyes, nor by what the world around us promotes; we are called to live by the unchanging truth of God's Word. The Scriptures dictate our morality, our priorities, our belief system, our worldview, and our hope. Just as Christ fully submitted to the Father's will, we too must surrender our own ways, bringing our thoughts, choices, and convictions under the authority of God's Word.

Reflect on your life: Are your beliefs truly grounded in the Bible, or have they been shaped by popular opinion? Do your decisions reflect a life in harmony with God's truth, or do they cater to personal comfort or worldly pressures? Merely claiming faith is insufficient—we must walk in alignment. Let Scripture be your lens, your compass, and your foundation. Align your heart, your mind, and your actions with God's revealed truth.

May the Lord grant you wisdom to discern His truth, strength to walk in obedience, and joy in knowing that your life is firmly rooted in accordance with the secure and unchanging Word of God. May His Word be the light guiding your steps and the rock upon which you stand.