Articles
GOOD DEEDS AND HOLINESS
MESSAGE: “If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man’s religion is worthless. Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” (James 1:26-27)
MEANING: James helps us consider three absolutes for connecting with God. Holy Speech. If we don’t speak kindly to others, will God listen when we speak to Him? Holy Actions. God showed His love for us when we needed spiritual help. If we can’t love others who need help, what do we really know about God’s love? Holy Life. If we can’t disconnect from sin, do we even value our connection to God?
MOVEMENT: Care for the unfortunate. What is acceptable to God is caring for the unfortunate. Orphans and widows were the most helpless people in Jewish society. They had no one to provide food or clothing for them. We need to take notice that James’ points us to being a doer of the Word. Do something! Help those who need help.
