This morning, I move on to prepare for teaching this upcoming Sunday 25AUG on James 5:12-20. As part of my preparation, my focus today is an unassisted review (no commentary) of the text. V12 immediately shares an important warning, sharing "but above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation." My mind goes to those (myself included at one point my life) who say they are going to do something then add a qualifier where they say "I swear to God." Only God is faithful whose promises all come to pass - because humans are fallen and imperfect we are not faithful as God is so any oath we make carries with it the possibility that we do not honor it. A quick text search in scripture of "oath" brings up Leviticus 5:4 - a similar text to James 5:12. Moving to vv13-20 the text describes appropriate responses to suffering (prayer), cheerfulness (praise), sickness (engage church elders) - vv13-14. Prayers of faith for those who are sick - v15 are answered as God will save those who confess their sin and accept Jesus as Lord and Savior (see also Romans 10:9-10). Sins will be forgiven so we are encouraged to confess our sins to one another - v16a. Vv16b-18 discuss the power of prayer and how Elijah demonstrated the power of prayer. Vv19-20 shares how we are called to help those wandering from the truth to return to the Lord.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me. Thank You Jesus for my salvation, and for Your Word, the Holy Spirit the church, my brothers and sisters in Christ and so much more. My cup overflows. I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues...please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly spouses and friends to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
