Faith Works: The Book of James // How to Be Rich
The Book of James is so practical in how we live out our faith in Jesus. In James 5, he points out that our faith is seen in how we use our money, our suffering, and our prayers. As Christ-followers, these three areas should look different from the world – how we invest our money,…
Read MoreFaith Works: The Book of James // Submit Yourselves to God
So why should we be faithful to God? Why choose friendship with Him over the world? Because God chose to enter into a relationship with us, fully knowing we would betray Him. Even after all the times we’ve walked away, made mistakes or said things we regret, God remains faithful. God chose to send His…
Read MoreFaith Works: The Book of James // Taming the Tongue
We have all been impacted by words. Words are powerful. James talks about the impact of words on our lives and others. We all carry hope and wounds from words said to us by a parent, coach, teacher or friend. And, at the same time, we too have the power to build up and destroy…
Read MoreFaith Works: The Book of James // Faith & Deeds
Salvation only comes through faith in Jesus. It is Jesus who saves a person. It is not about what we do, it is about what He has done. Jesus died on the cross for our sins and then conquered death so we can have eternity with God. However, James will say that “faith without works…
Read MoreFaith Works: The Book of James // Favoritism Forbidden
Favoritism has always been a problem for God’s people. Even in the Old Testament, there was dysfunction in families because of prejudice and favoritism. Favoritism is still a problem for Christians today. However, James calls believers in Jesus not to show favoritism but to live by a higher standard – love. How can we love…
Read MoreFaith Works: The Book of James // Listening and Doing
There are many people who have heard about Jesus. There are many people who have a Bible in their home. But, there are few people who actually live out their faith in Jesus. James tells us to “be doers of the Wword and not hearers only.” We are called to live out our faith. Works…
Read MoreFaith Works: The Book of James // Trials and Temptations
The Christian life is all about faith. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus. But salvation is not the end, but the beginning of an incredible faith journey. Every day we have the opportunity to place our faith in Jesus. This is where we see miracles happen and God move mountains. We are called to “live…
Read MoreFinish Strong // Part 5: The Sun Stands Still
Finish Strong: The Sun Stands Still Big, Bold Prayers How often do you find yourself praying to God? When you do pray, what kind of requests are you giving to God? Are they benign or are they big and bold? These are questions for you to both reflect upon and challenge yourself with. We have…
Read MoreFinish Strong // Part 4: The Battle of Ai
Finish Strong: The Battle of Ai The Downward Spiral of Sin Sin has a downward spiral. It typically starts with one seemingly “small” lie, act of disobedience, or harsh comment. We must recognize that there is a progression with sin. We may be tempted to sin, but it’s when we give in and continue to…
Read MoreFinish Strong // Part 3: Battle of Jericho
Finish Strong Why Obedience Matters Imagine being Joshua and receiving a message from the Lord to take your people and your army and go march around the city of your enemies for seven days. Joshua may be thinking, You want me to do what? This isn’t a very orthodox means to defeating a city. However,…
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