Putting James Into Practice: Week 4 | Chapters 4 & 5
Making your faith work all week long.
What does it look like to put your faith into practice all week long? The Book of James emphasizes the relationship between faith and works—in other words, we can’t just be hearers of the Word; we also need to be doers. Here are some practical ways you can put the Scriptures into practice all throughout the week.
Monday
Draw near to God
“Come near to God and he will come near to you.” James 4:8
If you’re like most people, your mind can feel full on Mondays. As you think about the week ahead and the tasks on your plate, take some time to slow down and draw near to God. He wants to give you strength and support for your week. Invite Him in.
Tuesday
Analyze your commitments
“Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. All you need to say is a simple “Yes” or “No.” James 5:12
It’s better to under-promise and over-deliver than to over-promise and under-deliver. We often make commitments without pausing to assess the capacity of our energy and time. Take a look at your commitments. Where have you over-promised?
Wednesday
Pray fervently
“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” James 5:16
What is an area of your life causing you angst? Have you prayed about it more than you’ve complained about it? Extend your time in prayer today and surrender your burdens to God. Then, pray for the needs of your family, friends, community, and beyond.
Thursday
Hold your tongue
“Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it.” James 4:11
One of the themes from The Book of James is taming the tongue. This verse specifically focuses on the way we speak about other people. If there is someone who is causing you frustration, watch your words and guard your heart. Pray for that person and ask for God to help you see them through your eyes.
Friday
Practice patience
“Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.” James 4:7-8
John Mark Comer says, “To walk with Jesus is to walk with a slow, unhurried pace. Hurry is the death of prayer and only impedes and spoils our work. It never advances it.” Take time today to practice slowing down. Notice the times during your day when you feel hurried and pause. Say a prayer and ask for God’s help to become more patient and to stay in step with His Spirit.
Saturday
Pray with someone else
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” James 5:19
Community is powerful. Reach out to a friend or someone in your small group and ask if they have time to pray together. Perhaps they can meet you at church on Sunday, and you can pray together after service. Use this time to share openly about your struggles and ask how you can support them.
Sunday
Reach out to someone struggling
“My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.” James 5:19-20
Do you know someone struggling in their faith or life? Reach out to them to let them know you are thinking of them. Share a word of encouragement, Scripture, song, or sermon that would uplift them.
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