Faith That Submits

July 16, 2023 • Tommy Bates • James 4:1–10

There are two types of friendships – one with the world and one with God. Friendship with the world comes from sinful flesh, to be spent on earthly passions, and ends in being enemies of God. The Spirit longs for us to live for and in Him. Friendship with God comes from His grace as we submit ourselves to Him and resist the devil. Drawing near to God through humble repentance and grieving over our sin, results in being lifted by God.

Faith That Prays

August 6, 2023 • Dave McClung • James 5:13–20

Our faith grows, and joy increases during suffering as we turn to God in prayer and praise. James instructs the church to pray with the elders. The literal and symbolic oil represents setting someone apart through prayer for special attention and care before God Who alone can heal. Not only should the elders pray for people, but so should the whole church because God answers prayer! He answered prayers for Elijah, and He’ll do it for us! Believers should pray for and help return those who wander and waiver in their faith back to God Who forgives and restores.

Faith That Lasts

July 30, 2023 • Dave McClung • James 5:7–12

Our faith is tested and strengthened in suffering. God desires believers to grow in patience. Like a farmer we are to wait on the harvest of fruit that comes from the seeds of patience. We must allow the Lord to change our hearts and we must refrain from grumbling to be found faithful by the Lord, the coming Judge. We should be unwavering like the prophets and steadfast like Job . Again (and above all), our speech reflects trustworthiness in persevering faith.

Faith That Is Humble

July 23, 2023 • Dave McClung • James 4:11—5:6

God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble. Pride manifests in various forms. It could be slander, boasting, or hoarding. Slander dishonors God and disheartens others. In contrast, Godly speech praises God and encourages others. Boasting about our future (short and long-term) by neglecting to ask God’s will is arrogant, foolish, and evil. Hoarding the resources God has placed in our lives is also prideful. We will be judged by God for how we have used what He has entrusted us. The things of this world are wasting away, but they can be invested for eternal purposes in His Kingdom.