James 2

Sin of Partiality
God chooses people by a different standard. He does not consider appearance, status or possessions...rather He judges based on the heart of a man
When I am prejudiced toward anyone I go against the character of my loving Lord. I don't get to decide who is worthy of His love, and as His disciple I am commanded to show that love to even those I would consider my enemies. This passage convicted me and showed me sin that I need to address concerning showing partiality to certain people. With God's help I am going to pray specifically for one person and for myself to find opportunities to show Christ's love.

"So speak and so act as those are to be judged under the law of liberty."
(James 2:12)

Faith without works is dead
Constantly I am forced to evaluate my life for fruitfulness and so often I fail miserably at living out what I believe. I am a people-pleaser whether or not I want to admit the fact. In my pride, I don't want to looked down on or ridiculed...I have so many excuses. The truth is, my faith needs to be evidenced by my speech and actions -- and that is not easy. But God promises hope for change. Not in my own strength, but through the power of Christ in me I can be victorious!

"But someone will say, 'You have faith and I have works.'
Show me your faith apart from you works,
and I will show you my faith by my works."
(James 2:18-19)

*let these verses be true in my life*

Once again I find myself marveling at the sovereignty of my Father. He knows just when I need a reminder that I'm not alone. Whether it be through a passage of Scripture, a song, a kind word from a stranger, or a gentle rebuke from a friend, God always manages to let me know that He is still in control, and I need not worry.

"In His hand are the depths of the earth;
the heights of the mountains are His also.
The sea is His, for He made it,
and His hands formed the dry land.
Oh come, let us worship and bow down;
let us kneel before the LORD our Maker!
For He is our God,
and we are the people of His pasture,
and the sheep of His hand..."
Psalm 95:4-7b