Day 116, James 5
Jacob’s timely letter urging followers of The Way to trust God in humility concludes today with warnings to the rich, instructions on healing, and exhortation to lovingly pursue those who have erred.
Remember this letter comes to all the scattered believers from Jewish backgrounds in the midst of persecution and great challenges.
In that context, the rich and comfortable are in danger, because they are disregarding God’s priorities: the people who are suffering and in need. Suffering is close to God’s heart, in light of the way all His prophets, and His Son were treated by sinful humanity.
So Jacob goes on to instruct us how to handle suffering - pray, praise, heal the sick and confess sin.
Our passion for God, fueled by the Holy Spirit’s presence in our suffering, is powerful. God’s Kingdom is demonstrated through His children’s humility and dependence on God despite suffering.
And so, we pursue those who have wandered away from God in response to suffering. Love conquers sin in so many ways!
Have a great day!
Mark