QT 5/8/2023 James 1:5-8, We need to stand firm; we need God's word in our lives

James 1:5–8 (ESV) —

5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

 

NOTE: James is referring to a very specific wisdom, it comes from God and is not like the world's wisdom. The world's wisdom tells you how to be happy, but it is distorted, short-sighted, and terribly wrong. It puts pleasure and earthly happiness above all else. God's wisdom is found in his word and is in opposition to most of the current worldview in the areas of sexuality (two sexes), marriage (context for a sexual relationship and between a man and a woman), finances (give it, don't seek it, and don't worship it), and many other areas. It can be hard not to doubt because the world regularly and from all angles tells us one thing, but God tells us another. We must be grounded in God's word. Those who do not spend time in God's word on a regular basis will doubt. Whatever is the last good argument they hear, they will believe, until another argument presents itself. We must not doubt God's word in these matters. Satan is trying to destroy the foundations at every point. There is no room for the double-minded in the body. They are like a disease that corrupts others from the truth of God's word. We must be grounded and built up daily in his word.

 

PONDER:

1. Am I serious about God's word? Do I spend time in the word each day?
2. Do I consider some bible truths outdated?
3. Have I bought into the world's lies?

 

PRAYER: Father, this is a time of great tragedy. The enemy controls the air waves and builds a worldview through gullible, foolish, and stupid people whose lives are controlled by fleshly pleasures. We are building a world of the mentally ill and maybe the demon-controlled. Give us strength to take our stand and to be bold for Jesus. Let us not shrink back from the truth. Help me to stand firm.