July 17: Isaiah 29-31; James 1

Scripture: James 1: 26 Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. 27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

Observation: I am saved by faith, but if that faith is not strong enough to find expression in my life, it is dead and cannot save me. My mouth is a major avenue through which faith expresses itself. Confessing that Jesus is Lord is the first work of faith, but it does not stop there. Faith also demonstrates its presence through words of love and kindness to others. My words are windows through which people can see into my life.

Application: Instead of bragging that I speak my mind, I need to learn to rein in my tongue (as we would say today: bite my tongue.) It is more important that my mouth speaks God’s thoughts.

Prayer: Lord, I want my mouth to be your servant, an instrument you can use to express your truth and love. Amen.

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!