James 2
Scripture
James 2:25-26
In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
Observation-What does it say?
The book of James is an epistle (or letter) that falls under the classification of a “general letter,” meaning it wasn’t addressed to a specific church, but to a group of Christians. The letter gives practical guidance for Christian living and conduct. It covers various topics, such as pride and humility, prayer, patience, controlling our tongue, and faith in action. Throughout the letter, James repeats that faith is more than just words. The evidence of our faith can be seen in how we have changed from our former pattern of behavior. In chapter two, James uses the examples of both Abraham and Rahab to demonstrate genuine faith that was worked out in action. It is the grace of God that draws us into acting out our faith like Abraham and Rahab.
Understanding-What does it mean?
Rahab is one of my favorite characters in the Bible. Her role seems so unassuming, yet the ramifications of her small deed carried on for generations. Rahab is all too often associated with her profession in Jericho before dealing kindly with the spies from Israel. Despite her past, Rahab became one of the ancestors of Jesus. Rahab married Salmon, an Israelite from the tribe of Judah. Her son was Boaz, the husband of Ruth. Joseph, the adoptive father of Jesus, is her direct descendant. When I read her story, I am reminded that God doesn't look at our past, but as long as we continue to take steps towards Him, we can be used in mighty ways and are bestowed the honor of true royalty. As the saying goes, it doesn’t matter how many times you fall, it’s how many times you get back up.
Life Application
Jesus, help me to always make my habit turning back to you. Help me to show your love through my actions. Give me action steps to live out my faith in you everyday.
-Tyler Galloway
James 1 - 8.19.21
Scripture - What stood out?
James 1:13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. (ESV)
Observation - What does it say?
A letter from the apostle James to the 12 dispersed tribes of Israel.
Understanding - What does it mean?
As a Christian now for going on 4 years (I’m sorry mom, I’m not sure I was saved before then, but I think we could make a strong argument for and against) I have come to place more and more trust in God. And while my faith could already testify to that, my walk also testifies to moments where I appear to lack it.
‘Can you imagine an all powerful and all knowing God, that had even a speck of evil?’ Pastor Warren posed to our Discover class one night.
‘The thought alone is terrifying,’ he said in his very dry and straightforward manner.
And so as I continue my journey to know God more, to become a better husband, a better father, and a better neighbor I am reminded today that God cannot be tempted by evil and he in turn tempts know one. My approach to relationships has changed vastly over the years and it is my relationship with God that I use as my basis, my foundation for all other human interaction. And so here is my “duh” moment to myself:
God is worthy of my trust.
And aren’t the best relationships built on…
Life Application - How can I apply this to my life today?
I know there are areas of my life I withhold from you Lord because I am afraid. But if you are a purely good Father, a good Shepherd, then I need to trust in your teachings in the bible. And I need to trust when the Holy Spirit speaks to me. Today I pray you give me the courage to own up to my mistakes, and in turn put my trust in You. In the name of Jesus do I pray, amen.
-kenneth lee
Hebrews 13
Scripture
Hebrews 13:7
“Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith.”
Observation-What does it say?
In this passage the author gives his concluding words from this epistle. He encourages the people to continue to live godly lives by loving one another, praying for one another, honoring each other, and submitting to our spiritual leaders-(see verse 17).
Understanding-What does it mean?
Thank God for the spiritual leaders He put in our lives.
As I sit here at my desk, watching a pastor on YouTube list his top 5 preachers who had influenced his life, I was reading this chapter in Hebrews and came across verse 7, and thought to myself, “which spiritual leaders influenced me?” So I just wanted to take this moment to give a “shout out”-(as the youngsters say 😆), to the people who have helped me grow spiritually.
First I thank God for my parents. They were the ones who raised me and laid the foundation of loving and serving God. Next I want to thank God for my pastors at DSC. Thank you Pastor Warren for your gentleness and kindness. Thank you for being a great shepherd to the flock you serve. Thank you Pastor Levi. You are younger than me, but so wise beyond your years. I truly honor and respect the way you lead your family, and the man of God you are. Thank you Justin for saying yes to leading our youth. I love the way you preach with so much passion and fire! Thank you Pastor Parker (who no longer attends DSC), but helped teach me the Bible in a fun and passionate way. Last but definitely not least, thank you Pastor Gary. Thank you for your leadership, discipleship, and friendship. You have challenged me to grow spiritually, and although I may be uncomfortable with it, I truly have grown from it. My parents may have gave me the strong foundation in my faith, but you sir are the one who continues to nurture and build me up to be the man that God wants me to be. I honor you for being a man of God who practices what you preach. May God bless you all for your faithfulness in building His Kingdom and fulfilling His Mission.
Life Application
Thank someone in your life who had that spiritual influence on you. 😊
Reach out to them today or this week whether by making a phone call, sending a letter, or even through an email or text. Let them know how much you appreciate them. Pray for them. Honor them.
“Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit.”-Hebrews 13:17
-Moses Gaddi