Welcome to this week's edition of the Weekend Sermon. I hope that you are doing well. I know many in the US are dealing with cold and power outages. I pray that all is starting to go better.
Our section from James this week provides us with some important instructions on how to live a life that is pleasing to God. The first thing that James tells us is that we should be quick to listen and slow to speak. This is a principle that will help us in every aspect of life.
There are some people who have something to say about every subject of conversation. They will not stop talking long enough for someone else to contribute to the conversation.
I believe that careful listening is very important in learning. If we are to gain information regarding a given subject, we have to listen intently to those who are knowledgeable about a subject.
In regard to spiritual matters, listening to God's Word is of vital importance. We need to listen carefully each time we hear the Word of God being delivered. We need to listen to ministers and teachers who are attempting to instruct us in the ways of God.
It is most important that we listen to the voice of Jesus. We don't always have to speak while praying. We can listen for the voice of Jesus in our heart providing us with His love and peace. We need to listen to the words Jesus has already given to us as recorded in the Gospels.
James goes on to tell us to be slow to anger because anger does not promote a righteous life. Words said in anger can really damage a relationship. When people are angry, they often don't stop and think before they speak. They blurt our words that hurt instead of providing words that heal.
James encourages us to live lives that are morally pure and free from the evil that is do prevalent in this world. We are to live lives that are marked by humility in imitation of the humble, servant attitude of the Lord Jesus.
If we follow the example of Jesus, we will live in such a way that is pleasing to God. Amen.
Prayer Requests
Please pray for those in the US who have suffered damage as a result of the winter storms and severely cold weather. I thank the Lord that I didn't have much trouble.
Continue to pray for peace on Earth. This week, let us concentrate on praying for peace in Somalia.
For our prayer focus countries, let us pray for Iraq and Indonesia. Pray that many will come to know Jesus.
Next week, we will continue in James. I have two messages to go to finish chapter one. I will post the verses on Monday and something on Wednesday. May God bless you all.
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