We must be careful what we speak and be conscious of the words we give life to. Purposely speak life over our children, life, work and situations as opposed to death.
James will have to be one of my favorite books of the Bible. “Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way.”
James 3:2 NLT
Lord help me to control my tongue. “But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.”
James 3:17 NLT
i love this verse. i pray for this kind of wisdom for myself and others.
16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. – James 3:16-17
I love Job, it is one of my favorite books of the Bible and in today’s reading this is one of my favorite verses: “He is wise in heart and mighty in strength
—who has hardened himself against him, and succeeded?—“ (Job 9:4)
I love to read the interaction of Job with God.
17But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. 16For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. 18And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
Lord, please forgive me and allow those that I have done wrong to forgive me also. Give me the strength to love others and the wisdom and self control to hold my tongue
James 3 :10 From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.
I need to remember to tame my tongue. Oftentimes I find myself saying things that shouldn’t be said and don’t need to be said. They don’t help my own soul or anyone else’s. I’m grateful for this reminder today
9With the tongue we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in God’s likeness. 10Blessing and cursing come out of the same mouth. My brothers and sisters, these things should not be this way.
A reminder to show our faith through both deeds and words. ❤️
I love the verse in Job about the hope of the Godless being fragile “like a spider’s web” or like a “plant with its roots wrapped around rocks.” This hope eventually withers and perishes. But when I need hope, I know that I have an eternal source of it who died for me so I could have this hope.
James is so blunt! I never noticed before, but I think that reading the Old Testament with the loftier language paired it provides an even starker contrast. I love the pairings that SheReadsTruth has done through these readings, so powerful. They truly give me new insight and allow my mind to better piece together the Bible as a wholistic narrative.
17 “But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” God’s wisdom is like no other -ellie
Love James 3, it is so true that our tongues are capable of so much- and often we lose control and act in a manner adverse to God’s will for us. Praying that each and every one of us continue to seek his wisdom and use our tongues for good.
I enjoy how we hear the voice and of Jobs friends who give questionable advice alongside the words around wisdom of the tongue. I think the words of Jobs friends are important as they call into question our doubts questions judgement but now my prayer must be of wise words inspired by God.
There’s a call to humility in today’s reading. Our righteousness always falls short of God’s standards and he is the only one we should measure ourselves against. Job 9:20 Though I am in the right, my own mouth would condemn me; though I and blameless, He would prove me perverse.
I’m reading in the app, but in the message version. I love how this scripture sounds.
” Real wisdom, God’s wisdom, begins with a holy life, and it is characterized by getting along with others.
James 3:17
ESV says “ 17But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” ❤️
James 3 hit me hard today. I have not been keeping good control over my tongue lately especially with my husband and children. In other ways I’m a really disciplined person but the Word is right: our tongues sure can create a lot of trouble! I find it discouraging that the Word says no human being can tame it! I assume that means we will never tame it completely but surely there is hope to improve.
I too was struck by James 3. I catch my tongue saying things that are not helpful, or with sarcastic humor, and I pray right then and there for forgiveness and strength to not let it happen again. The next thing I know, it’s happened again! It’s a hard habit to stop, but definitely worth the effort to try to improve it.
I feel the same way you do. The second something ugly come out of my mouth I immediately ask for forgiveness and realize how ridiculous I am but it just keeps coming. I’ve got to start thinking before I speak and that is HARD but doable if we ask God to help us.
A lot of what Job’s friends say are not wrong, per say, just misapplied. I find that to be a warning to my own thoughts and words that are quick to judge/slander others. “If only they had done as I did, they would have had the same results.” But here we see Job is having these trials because his faith is being tested. if I am judging as Job’s friends then how can I also have faith as Job’s?! 8:10, “for we were born yesterday and know nothing, because our days on earth are a shadow.”
Someone advised us “my church family” engage in the wrestling with our spirit and God. Get it all out ask the why’s, ask how could this or that happen, ask for clarity, ask the who, the what, and the why’s, when. Answers may not come to all the questions but it does bring spiritual growth and it builds our relationship with them. God is awesome and I’m so greatfull that we have Jesus our mediator, comforter, example of righteousness and holiness. Peace and love to all.
James 3:14-18 was super convicting today, as I struggle with jealousy: “But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but I’d earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first PURE, then PEACEABLE, GENTLE, OPEN TO REASON, full of MERCY and GOOD FRUITS, IMPARTIAL, and SINCERE. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who MAKE PEACE.”
I wrote in my journal almost the same thing as you wrote. Is it not amazing that reading God’s truths brings out our truth for us to see … reminding us, to keep us in check, and keep us on the lighted path. Praises and happy dancing to God.
Such a wrestle for a man who has lost the unspeakable. 10’kids gone. “He passes by me and I perceive him not…I must appeal for mercy.” Job 9:11, 15. If I summon Him, I wouldn’t believe He was listening to my voice—makes me think of “Silence.” Oh! God! Our Mediator! May we wrestle well with what You send our way. I’m wrestling with my life. This hits me hard.
Job understands God’s holiness in an atypical way (for our post-Christ, individualistic culture). It is refreshing to be reminded of the absolute, pure holiness of God and the frailty of humanity–I tend to forget both.
17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.
A guide to how I should share the gospel, and really teach it just interact with others in general. Pure, peaceable, reasonable, merciful… I need to watch for these traits and develop them
I like how Job and James kind of answer each other. It’s definitely helped reading them together. I feel so bad for Job though. I’m pretty sure that he is having a nervous breakdown or something? Correct me if I’m wrong. He’s just suffering so much. But God doesn’t give us things that we can’t handle. At least, we can’t handle it by ourselves. We have to turn to God and trust in his ways.
With James today, as I was reading about our tongues and such, I could hear my parents always telling me to think before I speak. The tongue is one of the worst things humans possess. It’s like it has a mind of its own and before you know it you’re saying things you don’t mean and things that you can’t take back or regret. Our attitudes that we allow others to see, is how they’ll perceive us. As Christians, it’s a challenge. We have to guard how we act and how we talk around others. But the best way to do that is by making sure that your life shows you’re living for God even when others aren’t around. Because if you just do it around people, you’re basically putting on an act. How can we expect a non-believer to know we’re Christians if we go around cussing, cracking dirty jokes, gossiping(really hard one not to do), how we dress, our body language, or how we speak? The Bible tells that even though we’re in this world, we aren’t supposed to be of it. We have to set the example and not be like the world.
-Z
Hi Z!
Poor Jo, reading about him really makes me feel bad for the guy. To answer your question, I think Job’s responses are more in frustration than anything else. His first friend came and accused him of having sinned, and told him that this was the reason behind his suffering. Job responds in his own defense, arguing that to his knowledge he is blameless. Job’s second friend then comes and tells him that the suffering is because of his children’s sins. Job again responds frustrated defending himself. Job also admits that while he thinks he is righteous, God can do whatever He wants, because God is the mightiest and he, Job, is just a man. Job admits to not understanding God’s ways. Job also cries out to God and basically asks why over and over again? The way I see it Job is in deep pain, both physical and spiritual, and his prayers and responses reflect just that, Him trying to understand his situation and trying to understand God’s purpose (Job keeps asking God in different ways, why did you let me be born if this calamity was the point of my life? Job does not see the point (not yet anyway).
Thank you for replying Melisa! It certainly did help. What you said made a lot of sense and helped me to understand the chapters that have been assigned each day. I’ve kinda struggled the past couple of days with understanding all that was going on. Now it makes sense:) thank you so so much!
Love, your sister in Christ,
Z
5 So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.
How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!
The tongue is so strongly used and can hurt so many people. When I was little in like first grade church class we would do this activity where the teachers would squeeze toothpaste out of a bottle and everyone would take their turns trying to put the toothpaste back in the bottle. It was really hard and only some of us could get some back in. Then the teachers explained that once words came out of your mouth then you really couldn’t put them back in. Like the toothpaste you could say sorry to cover them up a little(like how you could only put a little toothpaste back in the bottle). Our tongues are so powerful which is why it is important to use them only to bless.
I definitely needed to read this today. I somehow wasn’t able to read scripture like I normally do throughout the day today and as the day progressed, I got more irritable and found my tongue slipping in regards to my words, how I was speaking, and I’m sure what I was saying. I was so frustrated over little things and then something my friend told me resonated in my memory. She said if she realized she’d been crabby or angry for some reason, she would find it would be because she hadn’t spoken with God or read His Word in a while. That’s exactly what happened to me today. In Job 8:7, it says that we will be prosperous with God (in our future with Him) and that where we are without him is very little. I wasn’t as close to Him today as I like to be and I realize that I was less without him. A very eye opening experience!
I love Job 9:32-35. He pleads for a mediator to come between him and God & save him, and now we have that! How crazy and awesome is it that our God desires conversation and fellowship with us SO much that he made it possible?!
I argued with my longterm boyfriend over a very stupid, trifle thing earlier today. What always makes situations worse is when you allow your tongue to run wild without any regard for what is logical. This reading speaks to the very weakness that plagues me. A sharp tongue and a quick temper is not of God. I pray that in my continued journey to the Crosse, I will continue to face, accept, and overcome the weaknesses of my flesh.
I try to read this when I get in from work before my husband gets back- then the house is quiet and I’m not too sleepy. But I’ve been exhausted this week so falling behind!
Reading Job today I recognised so many of his phrases as things people say about God today. Isn’t it funny how the human nature has stayed the same through the centuries! Now I’m learning about the context, I’m looking forward to reading God’s response.
Don’t stress about falling behind! I started the study about 4 days late, so I’m right there with you! Keep the faith, Becca! We’re all in this together!
I’m doing this study at night ( I’m on the college clock haha). But wow I am inspired by everyone on here. Job and James have been very convicting to me too. I know I can be a bitter person, and I don’t control my mouth when I feel that anger rise up in me. But I’ve been praying specifically for God to soften my heart and loosen my tongue. And wow! God does listen to prayers, he brings peace and calm when I need it most.
I’ve been thinking that Job is so depressing and that he’s sooooo down on God, but I realised today, he’s telling the truth. He wants some one to mediate for him, to spare the rod on his back, to take away his terror… That was Jesus. Job is telling us just how miserable and hopeless we are without Jesus!
I smiled when I saw your comment because I was thinking to myself how I see Job now completely the opposite, actually very strong… God is revealing different things to each person, each time we read. I think it is based on the journey we are in. He is filling us with His truth, the way we need to be filled today. Pretty cool!
I love the last sentence. u will only produce fruit of righteousness if u have peace. so how can others see Gods love n peace through us if we can not find a way to cultivate it first in ourselves
Reading James this morning was so convicting. I definitely need to repent and invite the Holy Spirit to tame my tongue and count the weight of words. It is so easy for me to complain at work about someone or something not getting done- even if my day starts with the best intentions! I think I am learning this morning to take a moment before I say something…I feel like this usually happens in really sneaky ways! I am wanting to lean more into letting my words build others up!
I absolutely love Job’s wisdom. He has come to the conclusion that he can’t face God. He needs a mediator. *20 Even if I were innocent, my mouth would condemn me; if I were blameless, it would pronounce me guilty.*
At this point, there’s really been no reference or foretelling of Jesus. This is it. “If only,” Job says. If only someone could bring them together… Thank God for providing the one true Mediator.
Amen Jamie. It is the Holy Spirit that provides us the strength to pull us through. An example that through our troubles we need to invite God’s Spirit in our lives… The reminder I needed! Thank you.
7 Your beginnings will seem humble,
so prosperous will your future be.
Although this isn’t necessarily directed to us as readers…it’s something so important for us to remember. We don’t always see the big picture. We need to remember that God is constantly guiding us and ushering us in the right direction so that we can fulfill the will he has for us. I’m so thankful.
I find it quite interesting, all the things we think of as “the really bad sins” aren’t in Gods list of things he hates, but a lying tongue and one who spreads gossip is. Ouch.
2 “Indeed, I know that this is true.
But how can mere mortals prove their innocence before God?
3 Though they wished to dispute with him,
they could not answer him one time out of a thousand.
4 His wisdom is profound, his power is vast.
Who has resisted him and come out unscathed?
Can you hear the despair in his voice? Job cannot stand before God and he knows it. That should be US!! But praise God He sent Jesus Christ so that we could stand before God
Job longs for a place of no return, Job 10:21. I get that. He held such hard thoughts of God. And I certainly have. Inward temptations/ outward trials beyond belief. And Jam 3:6 blares loud: The tongue can “set the whole course of one’s life on fire.” God is always intending for us to be renewed & redeemed & made holy, no matter the circumstances. Oh my soul, so grateful for a Mediator.
Is anyone else doing our study in the afternoons?! I want to keep in touch with God ALL THROUGH THE DAY. ..not just my mornings and during my devotional with my husband at night!!! So lovely to be with you all!! Bless you as we journey together!!! Trish
Great idea! I can’t concentrate on both at the same time. I am trying to listen to NT audibly but that hasn’t happened… Will try to split the readings like you are doing. Thanks!
http://vimeo.com/40684999 A great explanation of the book of Job in less than 5 minutes. Not specific to this particular section, but really gives a good overview of the book!
James 3:1 Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. //This was powerful to read as has been everything else that’s been commented on.
I am struck by Job’s honesty in his crying out to and about God. And I can relate to his words about wishing he had never been born. I have thought those same words at low times in my life.
What a strong word about the tongue! Whenever I read this passage in James, I find myself stirred to repentance for the times that my tongue has run wild and hurt those around me. Then in the last verse, “peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness” goes to show what a bridled tongue in action looks like. My prayer is for The Lord to shape my heart and in turn, my tongue, to be such that I desire to sow peace, and strive against my sharp tongue.
Amen. We all are guilty of letting our mouths run away from us. Only by the goodness of God and his Holy Spirit can we live in a way worthy of his calling.
James 3:14. Not only should we not boast of selfish ambition and such things but we should also avoid denying we have them! To deny the presence of these in my heart is to allow them to grow and fester outside of my control. Like shame and fear, when brought into the light of God’s grace, such things cannot survive. Lord, help me to see myself through your eyes and let your grace root out all the things not fitting for your purpose.
“14 What they trust in is fragile ;
what they rely on is a spider’s web.
15 They lean on the web, but it gives way;
they cling to it, but it does not hold.”
Wow these two little verses jumped out and grabbed me. Job’s friend speaks them in reference of those who “forget God.” So many times in my life I trust what is fragile, namely myself, while completely forgetting God. And always–ALWAYS–what I cling to gives way. How humbling to know that the Father still catches me though I often have to reach the falling point before I remember trusting in anything besides God is as fragile as clinging to a spider’s web. Lord, write this imagery on my heart permanently so that I will remember when I am tempted to trust in myself.
Job said: 33 If only there were someone to mediate between us,
someone to bring us together,
34 someone to remove God’s rod from me,
so that his terror would frighten me no more.
35 Then I would speak up without fear of him,
but as it now stands with me, I cannot.
Struck by James 3:16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
Too often I find myself wanting more or thinking only of myself. So true that these two sins lead to further sins. Lord, fill me with a heart of gratitude and selflessness so I may be more like you and reach others for your kingdom!
13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth.” A reminder that God sees the heart, and repentance he demands
Amen to what has been written in the comments already this morning. I love the reference in Job about needing a savior. And in James, in verse 17, the description of wisdom that comes from heaven. What a wonderful point to refer to..for me, especially at work.
Job 9:33 If only there were someone to mediate between us, someone to bring us together…
Jesus! Job accused God of being unjust. Although he was wrong and God was not causing his suffering, God would so be justified in doing so. Thankfully he gave his son so we could be together with him!
Sarah, I like your statement in the terms that God is God… He does, or allows what He wants. Yet, I would feel like Job saying that maybe the situation can be seen as somehow “unjust”. After all, Job wasn’t proud, was doing the will of God, known as righteous man, etc. From the beginning of the book, his life unfolds between a conversation with God & satan. The issue is between God & satan, and a testing of His faith in the end, and revelation of his true heart. Losing everything he had in a day (and he was very rich) and 10 of his kids, can be seen as unjust to a human… Personally, I think it is okay to feel that! I even think God would understand that feeling too. Because God ultimately sees the future and knows the limited vision of man… I think God focuses on ths heart of man rather on the complaint of saying “God is unjust”… Just a different spin from my side.
I agree that God does see and knows and even understands our human perspective and how limited it is. His ways are not our ways and the ways of the Lord are far beyond our understanding
I was just thinking of the same Madelyn…
1. Judgmental comments by friends
2. Job’s honesty & openness
3. Job’s despair & brokenness
And envisioning a play in my mind: characters, God, Satan, Job & his friends…God looking down watching everything and hearing. Job strength of praising God but then asking if God is even hearing? Job’s friends looking down on Job & satan listening in, and enjoying the view of Job & all the commentaries…
“They lean on the ~web~ but it gives way;
they cling to it, but it does not hold.” Hmmm, God already foresaw the doom & demise of the internet… Okay being a bit quirky and bit “cliche”… Hope it made someone smile.
It is a struggle indeed. I want to get rid of all of them sometimes, then I think some of the useful tools out there…including the fact that through a comment on facebook, I found this app. So, my goal is ‘balance’…
Wow this reading was cutting me straight to the heart. In echoing the rest of you sisters, Job realizes that he needs an intercessor, he laments for it! I’m learning a lot from Job. Praise God for His Son!
Ah, the words of James hit right in my heart. I gossiped ALL the time before I was saved. Truthfully, I didn’t know what to do with myself after I became a believer and sat with sisters for the first time. I was quick to husband-bash and never gave God the praise He is worthy of. I was AWFUL! Praise and glory be to God that He showed me my sin and I’ve repented- but it is hard! Husband bashing, man bashing and talking badly about others (even about others sin!) is rampant in our churches and among believers today!
Lord, let our words edify and sharpen each other, not destroy and wound!
I agree with you, and we do have to be careful of gossip! To put a spin on things, I was “husband bashing” the other day, for two hours! I vented, my friend listened, and replied, I really vented (with very direct wishes upon my husband!!), my friend listened… I vented some more, cried some more, in the end gratefully thanked my friend for listening…then we both laughed at my “direct wishes upon my husband”… Sinful thoughts? Oh yea!!! But, I loved the fact that my friend did not judge me, listened & I could somehow move on… The point that gets lost is that we need a few good friends to ‘let it all out’ or we can explode…at least ~I~ was about to explode! Truth be told, my marriage is very shaky right now… But the point that you stated is dead on…our job is not to “bash” people mindlessly to every person we see… It is a process of learning & growing.
Praying for your marriage Moni! No judgement hear. All marriages go through times of shaky-ness, but when you come out on the other side stronger than before, it is all worth it. Faith in our marriages is another small way to give glory to God, right?
Sarina, thank you. Life is hard. Marriages are indeed tough. Right now my only faith is in God. Trusting He fills me with strength, either way it goes. Your prayers are indeed appreciated… We are meant to praise God together and pray for one another as such times as this…
All marriages do go through shakiness! Ask God to bless your marriage and work in your both with love and understand to get back on the same page. I was in the same exact boat as you and have prayed and studied the bible and searched and we are slowly getting back on track!
Thank you Kaily. Right now it is hard to ask for a blessing, rather strength to endure & move out of His way, so He takes over… Praying for you as well. Relationships are very tough!
I completely understand this. I have a hard time not bashing my husband sometimes and our marriage is so up and down. I like your point though that maybe having one friend we can confide in and not many people! Thanks for encouraging me! I pray you and your husband will continue to seek God and that He would help you!
From James…
17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
A good barometer for when you are seeking discernment or advice!
James 3:17 describes the speech of the godly/wise person, “pure, peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy”. That’s a high standard to attain. How often is my speech characterized by these things? And how often am I just trying to get attention, laughter, praise, etc by my quick responses and sarcastic humor.
Job 10:12 “You have granted me life and lovingkindness; And Your care has preserved my spirit”. I think Job crosses a line in today’s reading. His son was not the cause of his suffering but he is not speaking wisely. But even in the midst of his bitterness, he does come out with some nuggets of truth. He remembers his God has responded to him in kindness and mercy in the past
In Job, we do see what the reality of sin is in the OT. “Oh God, who can stand?” But, in connection with James’s discussion about the tongue, it is pretty evident that the spoken words of Job’s friends have shifted the atmosphere from trust in a righteous God in the middle of trial, to one of fear in the face of not knowing the condition of His heart. After Job heard their fearful “understanding,” he responded with his own (albeit a slightly different perspective).
Everyone thought they understood what was going on in Heaven and how it was being played out on earth.
Then James reminds us, even if we do feel like we’ve understood a piece of the puzzle, we should spend our lives LIVING out the truth, rather than letting our words fly without careful examination by Holy Spirit.
I’ll end this with the ever-theologically sound dialogue of Mr. Beaver in Narnia,
“Safe?” said Mr Beaver …”Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.”
Amen Lydia! I loved the parallel of Job and James today – we see the dangers of a loose tongue, both from Job and from his friends, and then James further lays out for us just how dangerous this tongue can be. I often struggle to hold my tongue, and know that these verses were picked especially for my heart today by our Lord and Savior!
hi Jess! these verses spoke to me as well.. though Job’s perspective of God’s goodness was clouded at this time, he never forgot the great power of the Almighty God, wha He can do… and how much He hates sin! how much we need a “mediator” because we cannot stand in the presence of a Holy God… grateful that Jesus came to save us!
“33 If only there were someone to mediate between us,
someone to bring us together,
34 someone to remove God’s rod from me,
so that his terror would frighten me no more.
35 Then I would speak up without fear of him,
but as it now stands with me, I cannot.”
Job sees the fearsome wrath of a perfectly righteous God against sin and cries out for a mediator, someone to “remove God’s rod.” Oh glory to God that Christ has come and bore the brunt of God’s judgment against sin. Like Job longed to do, I can come confidently into His presence and find only grace and mercy waiting for me there. What a wonderful Saviour!
Thank you for bringing this truth to light Jess… I hadn’t thought of it that way but it’s so amazing how God already had it arranged for Jesus to be our mediator. I’m so thankful too for His mercy! I sure don’t deserve it.
Job longs for that place of no return, Job 10:21. I get that. He held such hard thoughts of God. And I certainly have. Inward temptations and outward trials beyond belief. And James 3:6 shouts loud: The tongue can “set the whole course of one’s life on fire.” God is always intending for us to be renewed and redeemed and made holy, no matter our circumstances. Oh my soul, so grateful for a Mediator.
The move of the Holy Spirit is amazing for sure! Studying together with one another (and for my part not knowing hardly anyone on here) yet growing together nevertheless, is pretty cool and quite profound! Great indication that God exists on this alone… To powerful to ignore…
I felt the exact same! I’ve been so negative with my attitude and words lately. I’m in grad school and it seems like everything is crashing down on me at once. I am so thankful for the reminder in both Job and James the importance of praising and respecting the Lord! As well as how vital it is to have life giving words! James made a great point in how our words can burn our lives down because they’ve been set on fire already by hell. Yikes! But it’s reality! Praying for you ladies!
I needed this most today. Thank you Jesus!
“Meekness of wisdom” so good. I need that
We must be careful what we speak and be conscious of the words we give life to. Purposely speak life over our children, life, work and situations as opposed to death.
James will have to be one of my favorite books of the Bible. “Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way.”
James 3:2 NLT
Lord help me to control my tongue. “But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.”
James 3:17 NLT
i love this verse. i pray for this kind of wisdom for myself and others.
9 (For we are but of yesterday, and know nothing, because our days upon earth are a shadow:) – Job 8:9
16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. – James 3:16-17
Reading James in 5 days is like eating a whole box of chocolates! Only I don’t feel sick afterwards
8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. – James 3:8
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I love Job, it is one of my favorite books of the Bible and in today’s reading this is one of my favorite verses: “He is wise in heart and mighty in strength
—who has hardened himself against him, and succeeded?—“ (Job 9:4)
I love to read the interaction of Job with God.
17But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. 16For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. 18And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
Lord, please forgive me and allow those that I have done wrong to forgive me also. Give me the strength to love others and the wisdom and self control to hold my tongue
Speak Life
21He will yet fill your mouth with laughter,
and your lips with shouting.
Loved these passages this morning! Have a great day ladies! ❤️
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James 3 :10 From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.
I need to remember to tame my tongue. Oftentimes I find myself saying things that shouldn’t be said and don’t need to be said. They don’t help my own soul or anyone else’s. I’m grateful for this reminder today
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Love me some Job and James! Two of my favorite books of the Bible.
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I want to bring peace not disorder. Lord, help me to capture my jealous and selfish thoughts and exchange them for wisdom from above
Amen!
2For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.
Ouch. This is an area I need help in, Lord.
9With the tongue we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in God’s likeness. 10Blessing and cursing come out of the same mouth. My brothers and sisters, these things should not be this way.
A reminder to show our faith through both deeds and words. ❤️
I love the verse in Job about the hope of the Godless being fragile “like a spider’s web” or like a “plant with its roots wrapped around rocks.” This hope eventually withers and perishes. But when I need hope, I know that I have an eternal source of it who died for me so I could have this hope.
James is so blunt! I never noticed before, but I think that reading the Old Testament with the loftier language paired it provides an even starker contrast. I love the pairings that SheReadsTruth has done through these readings, so powerful. They truly give me new insight and allow my mind to better piece together the Bible as a wholistic narrative.
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17 “But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” God’s wisdom is like no other -ellie
May we pray for this wisdom as Solomon did for surely we will not receive without asking!
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Day 28! ✔️❤️
Thanks for sharing. I had not considered that.
Love James 3, it is so true that our tongues are capable of so much- and often we lose control and act in a manner adverse to God’s will for us. Praying that each and every one of us continue to seek his wisdom and use our tongues for good.
Please Lord let me have wisdom
I enjoy how we hear the voice and of Jobs friends who give questionable advice alongside the words around wisdom of the tongue. I think the words of Jobs friends are important as they call into question our doubts questions judgement but now my prayer must be of wise words inspired by God.
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There’s a call to humility in today’s reading. Our righteousness always falls short of God’s standards and he is the only one we should measure ourselves against. Job 9:20 Though I am in the right, my own mouth would condemn me; though I and blameless, He would prove me perverse.
Amen!
Day 28. Shocked I’ve been this consistent ❤️
Oh, James. I am convicted.
Me too. ❤️
I’m reading in the app, but in the message version. I love how this scripture sounds.
” Real wisdom, God’s wisdom, begins with a holy life, and it is characterized by getting along with others.
James 3:17
ESV says “ 17But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” ❤️
Controlling my tongue is a big struggle for me. So thankful for this MUCH needed Truth this morning. I am loving James. Have a blessed Monday! ❤️
Controlling my tongue is a big struggle for me. I am loving James and much needed this Truth this morning!!!! Have an awesome Monday! ❤️
Love the book of James and how direct it is
James 3 hit me hard today. I have not been keeping good control over my tongue lately especially with my husband and children. In other ways I’m a really disciplined person but the Word is right: our tongues sure can create a lot of trouble! I find it discouraging that the Word says no human being can tame it! I assume that means we will never tame it completely but surely there is hope to improve.
I too was struck by James 3. I catch my tongue saying things that are not helpful, or with sarcastic humor, and I pray right then and there for forgiveness and strength to not let it happen again. The next thing I know, it’s happened again! It’s a hard habit to stop, but definitely worth the effort to try to improve it.
I feel the same way you do. The second something ugly come out of my mouth I immediately ask for forgiveness and realize how ridiculous I am but it just keeps coming. I’ve got to start thinking before I speak and that is HARD but doable if we ask God to help us.
Comes**
A lot of what Job’s friends say are not wrong, per say, just misapplied. I find that to be a warning to my own thoughts and words that are quick to judge/slander others. “If only they had done as I did, they would have had the same results.” But here we see Job is having these trials because his faith is being tested. if I am judging as Job’s friends then how can I also have faith as Job’s?! 8:10, “for we were born yesterday and know nothing, because our days on earth are a shadow.”
*per se, haha not sure what I was thinking.
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Someone advised us “my church family” engage in the wrestling with our spirit and God. Get it all out ask the why’s, ask how could this or that happen, ask for clarity, ask the who, the what, and the why’s, when. Answers may not come to all the questions but it does bring spiritual growth and it builds our relationship with them. God is awesome and I’m so greatfull that we have Jesus our mediator, comforter, example of righteousness and holiness. Peace and love to all.
James 3:14-18 was super convicting today, as I struggle with jealousy: “But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but I’d earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first PURE, then PEACEABLE, GENTLE, OPEN TO REASON, full of MERCY and GOOD FRUITS, IMPARTIAL, and SINCERE. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who MAKE PEACE.”
I wrote in my journal almost the same thing as you wrote. Is it not amazing that reading God’s truths brings out our truth for us to see … reminding us, to keep us in check, and keep us on the lighted path. Praises and happy dancing to God.
Amen to that!
Every day of 2017 in the Word! Keep running the race.
Right there with ya! :)
Such a wrestle for a man who has lost the unspeakable. 10’kids gone. “He passes by me and I perceive him not…I must appeal for mercy.” Job 9:11, 15. If I summon Him, I wouldn’t believe He was listening to my voice—makes me think of “Silence.” Oh! God! Our Mediator! May we wrestle well with what You send our way. I’m wrestling with my life. This hits me hard.
Job understands God’s holiness in an atypical way (for our post-Christ, individualistic culture). It is refreshing to be reminded of the absolute, pure holiness of God and the frailty of humanity–I tend to forget both.
You have granted me life and steadfast love,
and your care has preserved my spirit. -Job 10:12
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17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.
A guide to how I should share the gospel, and really teach it just interact with others in general. Pure, peaceable, reasonable, merciful… I need to watch for these traits and develop them
Great comments and food for thought, Z. Thanks for your honesty
I like how Job and James kind of answer each other. It’s definitely helped reading them together. I feel so bad for Job though. I’m pretty sure that he is having a nervous breakdown or something? Correct me if I’m wrong. He’s just suffering so much. But God doesn’t give us things that we can’t handle. At least, we can’t handle it by ourselves. We have to turn to God and trust in his ways.
With James today, as I was reading about our tongues and such, I could hear my parents always telling me to think before I speak. The tongue is one of the worst things humans possess. It’s like it has a mind of its own and before you know it you’re saying things you don’t mean and things that you can’t take back or regret. Our attitudes that we allow others to see, is how they’ll perceive us. As Christians, it’s a challenge. We have to guard how we act and how we talk around others. But the best way to do that is by making sure that your life shows you’re living for God even when others aren’t around. Because if you just do it around people, you’re basically putting on an act. How can we expect a non-believer to know we’re Christians if we go around cussing, cracking dirty jokes, gossiping(really hard one not to do), how we dress, our body language, or how we speak? The Bible tells that even though we’re in this world, we aren’t supposed to be of it. We have to set the example and not be like the world.
-Z
Hi Z!
Poor Jo, reading about him really makes me feel bad for the guy. To answer your question, I think Job’s responses are more in frustration than anything else. His first friend came and accused him of having sinned, and told him that this was the reason behind his suffering. Job responds in his own defense, arguing that to his knowledge he is blameless. Job’s second friend then comes and tells him that the suffering is because of his children’s sins. Job again responds frustrated defending himself. Job also admits that while he thinks he is righteous, God can do whatever He wants, because God is the mightiest and he, Job, is just a man. Job admits to not understanding God’s ways. Job also cries out to God and basically asks why over and over again? The way I see it Job is in deep pain, both physical and spiritual, and his prayers and responses reflect just that, Him trying to understand his situation and trying to understand God’s purpose (Job keeps asking God in different ways, why did you let me be born if this calamity was the point of my life? Job does not see the point (not yet anyway).
Sorry that was long, hope it helps, friend!
Thank you for replying Melisa! It certainly did help. What you said made a lot of sense and helped me to understand the chapters that have been assigned each day. I’ve kinda struggled the past couple of days with understanding all that was going on. Now it makes sense:) thank you so so much!
Love, your sister in Christ,
Z
Very well said, thank you I needed to hear this
Xoxo
5 So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.
How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!
The tongue is so strongly used and can hurt so many people. When I was little in like first grade church class we would do this activity where the teachers would squeeze toothpaste out of a bottle and everyone would take their turns trying to put the toothpaste back in the bottle. It was really hard and only some of us could get some back in. Then the teachers explained that once words came out of your mouth then you really couldn’t put them back in. Like the toothpaste you could say sorry to cover them up a little(like how you could only put a little toothpaste back in the bottle). Our tongues are so powerful which is why it is important to use them only to bless.
What a great illustration!
I definitely needed to read this today. I somehow wasn’t able to read scripture like I normally do throughout the day today and as the day progressed, I got more irritable and found my tongue slipping in regards to my words, how I was speaking, and I’m sure what I was saying. I was so frustrated over little things and then something my friend told me resonated in my memory. She said if she realized she’d been crabby or angry for some reason, she would find it would be because she hadn’t spoken with God or read His Word in a while. That’s exactly what happened to me today. In Job 8:7, it says that we will be prosperous with God (in our future with Him) and that where we are without him is very little. I wasn’t as close to Him today as I like to be and I realize that I was less without him. A very eye opening experience!
Thank you for sharing, I never really thought of a connection like that!
Job 8:7 Your beginnings will seem humble,
so prosperous will your future be.
I love Job 9:32-35. He pleads for a mediator to come between him and God & save him, and now we have that! How crazy and awesome is it that our God desires conversation and fellowship with us SO much that he made it possible?!
Yes, another prophetic point to what Jesus would fulfill, so cool.
I argued with my longterm boyfriend over a very stupid, trifle thing earlier today. What always makes situations worse is when you allow your tongue to run wild without any regard for what is logical. This reading speaks to the very weakness that plagues me. A sharp tongue and a quick temper is not of God. I pray that in my continued journey to the Crosse, I will continue to face, accept, and overcome the weaknesses of my flesh.
I will pray this for you!
I try to read this when I get in from work before my husband gets back- then the house is quiet and I’m not too sleepy. But I’ve been exhausted this week so falling behind!
Reading Job today I recognised so many of his phrases as things people say about God today. Isn’t it funny how the human nature has stayed the same through the centuries! Now I’m learning about the context, I’m looking forward to reading God’s response.
Don’t stress about falling behind! I started the study about 4 days late, so I’m right there with you! Keep the faith, Becca! We’re all in this together!
I too, am doing this study at night. I find it’s an amazing way to quiet my mind after my chaotic day.
I’m doing this study at night ( I’m on the college clock haha). But wow I am inspired by everyone on here. Job and James have been very convicting to me too. I know I can be a bitter person, and I don’t control my mouth when I feel that anger rise up in me. But I’ve been praying specifically for God to soften my heart and loosen my tongue. And wow! God does listen to prayers, he brings peace and calm when I need it most.
I need to tame my tongue…also need to watch strife in my workplace since it’s proof that confusion is present
So true
I’ve been thinking that Job is so depressing and that he’s sooooo down on God, but I realised today, he’s telling the truth. He wants some one to mediate for him, to spare the rod on his back, to take away his terror… That was Jesus. Job is telling us just how miserable and hopeless we are without Jesus!
I smiled when I saw your comment because I was thinking to myself how I see Job now completely the opposite, actually very strong… God is revealing different things to each person, each time we read. I think it is based on the journey we are in. He is filling us with His truth, the way we need to be filled today. Pretty cool!
I love the last sentence. u will only produce fruit of righteousness if u have peace. so how can others see Gods love n peace through us if we can not find a way to cultivate it first in ourselves
Reading James this morning was so convicting. I definitely need to repent and invite the Holy Spirit to tame my tongue and count the weight of words. It is so easy for me to complain at work about someone or something not getting done- even if my day starts with the best intentions! I think I am learning this morning to take a moment before I say something…I feel like this usually happens in really sneaky ways! I am wanting to lean more into letting my words build others up!
I want to slow down and take in what I’m reading and not merely read to check it off for the day. Please pray for me!!!!!
Praying for you, Lakeisha! SO glad we are in this together! Love and grace to you!
xoxo-Kaitlin for She Reads Truth
I absolutely love Job’s wisdom. He has come to the conclusion that he can’t face God. He needs a mediator. *20 Even if I were innocent, my mouth would condemn me; if I were blameless, it would pronounce me guilty.*
At this point, there’s really been no reference or foretelling of Jesus. This is it. “If only,” Job says. If only someone could bring them together… Thank God for providing the one true Mediator.
Amen Jamie. It is the Holy Spirit that provides us the strength to pull us through. An example that through our troubles we need to invite God’s Spirit in our lives… The reminder I needed! Thank you.
This hit me today too!!! I just texted my friend about how beautiful this is!
7 Your beginnings will seem humble,
so prosperous will your future be.
Although this isn’t necessarily directed to us as readers…it’s something so important for us to remember. We don’t always see the big picture. We need to remember that God is constantly guiding us and ushering us in the right direction so that we can fulfill the will he has for us. I’m so thankful.
I find it quite interesting, all the things we think of as “the really bad sins” aren’t in Gods list of things he hates, but a lying tongue and one who spreads gossip is. Ouch.
20 Even if I were in the right, my own mouth would condemn me;
if I were blameless, my mouth would declare me guilty.
2 “Indeed, I know that this is true.
But how can mere mortals prove their innocence before God?
3 Though they wished to dispute with him,
they could not answer him one time out of a thousand.
4 His wisdom is profound, his power is vast.
Who has resisted him and come out unscathed?
Can you hear the despair in his voice? Job cannot stand before God and he knows it. That should be US!! But praise God He sent Jesus Christ so that we could stand before God
Job longs for a place of no return, Job 10:21. I get that. He held such hard thoughts of God. And I certainly have. Inward temptations/ outward trials beyond belief. And Jam 3:6 blares loud: The tongue can “set the whole course of one’s life on fire.” God is always intending for us to be renewed & redeemed & made holy, no matter the circumstances. Oh my soul, so grateful for a Mediator.
Is anyone else doing our study in the afternoons?! I want to keep in touch with God ALL THROUGH THE DAY. ..not just my mornings and during my devotional with my husband at night!!! So lovely to be with you all!! Bless you as we journey together!!! Trish
I usually check back in during the afternoon to see what comments people have made. I’ve learned some really interesting perspectives that way!
I kinda split it up. I’ve been doing OT in am and NT in pm. And I do like to follow through comments as well :)
Great idea! I can’t concentrate on both at the same time. I am trying to listen to NT audibly but that hasn’t happened… Will try to split the readings like you are doing. Thanks!
I do the read through the bible in the morning, and a seperate devotion during the day to dig deeper
So I’ve been following the plan since day 1 but my progress still says 0% am I doing something wrong or…?
But I still absolutely love the plan!
Are you marking it as read?
You can either tap the teal colored button at the bottom of the reading. Or slide to the left over the list and it will mark it as read
If you tap mark as read it should change your progress
http://vimeo.com/40684999 A great explanation of the book of Job in less than 5 minutes. Not specific to this particular section, but really gives a good overview of the book!
Thank you for this!
James 3:1 Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. //This was powerful to read as has been everything else that’s been commented on.
I am struck by Job’s honesty in his crying out to and about God. And I can relate to his words about wishing he had never been born. I have thought those same words at low times in my life.
You are not alone. Yesterday’s reading from Job felt like a page from my journal. Sending love.
Loving this.
What a strong word about the tongue! Whenever I read this passage in James, I find myself stirred to repentance for the times that my tongue has run wild and hurt those around me. Then in the last verse, “peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness” goes to show what a bridled tongue in action looks like. My prayer is for The Lord to shape my heart and in turn, my tongue, to be such that I desire to sow peace, and strive against my sharp tongue.
Amen. We all are guilty of letting our mouths run away from us. Only by the goodness of God and his Holy Spirit can we live in a way worthy of his calling.
James 3:14. Not only should we not boast of selfish ambition and such things but we should also avoid denying we have them! To deny the presence of these in my heart is to allow them to grow and fester outside of my control. Like shame and fear, when brought into the light of God’s grace, such things cannot survive. Lord, help me to see myself through your eyes and let your grace root out all the things not fitting for your purpose.
I liked this too! I felt like God was saying it’s okay to naturally have those feelings. Own it, confess it, and I will help you put off and put on
“14 What they trust in is fragile ;
what they rely on is a spider’s web.
15 They lean on the web, but it gives way;
they cling to it, but it does not hold.”
Wow these two little verses jumped out and grabbed me. Job’s friend speaks them in reference of those who “forget God.” So many times in my life I trust what is fragile, namely myself, while completely forgetting God. And always–ALWAYS–what I cling to gives way. How humbling to know that the Father still catches me though I often have to reach the falling point before I remember trusting in anything besides God is as fragile as clinging to a spider’s web. Lord, write this imagery on my heart permanently so that I will remember when I am tempted to trust in myself.
Amen!
Yes! These verses really jumped out at me too. Thank you for sharing
Job said: 33 If only there were someone to mediate between us,
someone to bring us together,
34 someone to remove God’s rod from me,
so that his terror would frighten me no more.
35 Then I would speak up without fear of him,
but as it now stands with me, I cannot.
But now we have One Mediator, Christ Jesus!!!
Ouch!! James holds nothing back! He’s bold and honest. It’s good though!
Struck by James 3:16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
Too often I find myself wanting more or thinking only of myself. So true that these two sins lead to further sins. Lord, fill me with a heart of gratitude and selflessness so I may be more like you and reach others for your kingdom!
On point!
Exactly!!
13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth.” A reminder that God sees the heart, and repentance he demands
Amen to what has been written in the comments already this morning. I love the reference in Job about needing a savior. And in James, in verse 17, the description of wisdom that comes from heaven. What a wonderful point to refer to..for me, especially at work.
“9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness.”
That is sure a wake up call for me! James was on point today and told me just what I needed to hear!
Job 9:33 If only there were someone to mediate between us, someone to bring us together…
Jesus! Job accused God of being unjust. Although he was wrong and God was not causing his suffering, God would so be justified in doing so. Thankfully he gave his son so we could be together with him!
Sarah, I like your statement in the terms that God is God… He does, or allows what He wants. Yet, I would feel like Job saying that maybe the situation can be seen as somehow “unjust”. After all, Job wasn’t proud, was doing the will of God, known as righteous man, etc. From the beginning of the book, his life unfolds between a conversation with God & satan. The issue is between God & satan, and a testing of His faith in the end, and revelation of his true heart. Losing everything he had in a day (and he was very rich) and 10 of his kids, can be seen as unjust to a human… Personally, I think it is okay to feel that! I even think God would understand that feeling too. Because God ultimately sees the future and knows the limited vision of man… I think God focuses on ths heart of man rather on the complaint of saying “God is unjust”… Just a different spin from my side.
I agree that God does see and knows and even understands our human perspective and how limited it is. His ways are not our ways and the ways of the Lord are far beyond our understanding
So much to ponder and digest. Lord I need wisdom and discernment every day…
I was just thinking of the same Madelyn…
1. Judgmental comments by friends
2. Job’s honesty & openness
3. Job’s despair & brokenness
And envisioning a play in my mind: characters, God, Satan, Job & his friends…God looking down watching everything and hearing. Job strength of praising God but then asking if God is even hearing? Job’s friends looking down on Job & satan listening in, and enjoying the view of Job & all the commentaries…
“They lean on the ~web~ but it gives way;
they cling to it, but it does not hold.” Hmmm, God already foresaw the doom & demise of the internet… Okay being a bit quirky and bit “cliche”… Hope it made someone smile.
It’s so true though! I cling to social media to “fill Me” and it’s become such an idol in my life
It is a struggle indeed. I want to get rid of all of them sometimes, then I think some of the useful tools out there…including the fact that through a comment on facebook, I found this app. So, my goal is ‘balance’…
yes :)
This made me LOL
Wow this reading was cutting me straight to the heart. In echoing the rest of you sisters, Job realizes that he needs an intercessor, he laments for it! I’m learning a lot from Job. Praise God for His Son!
Ah, the words of James hit right in my heart. I gossiped ALL the time before I was saved. Truthfully, I didn’t know what to do with myself after I became a believer and sat with sisters for the first time. I was quick to husband-bash and never gave God the praise He is worthy of. I was AWFUL! Praise and glory be to God that He showed me my sin and I’ve repented- but it is hard! Husband bashing, man bashing and talking badly about others (even about others sin!) is rampant in our churches and among believers today!
Lord, let our words edify and sharpen each other, not destroy and wound!
I agree with you, and we do have to be careful of gossip! To put a spin on things, I was “husband bashing” the other day, for two hours! I vented, my friend listened, and replied, I really vented (with very direct wishes upon my husband!!), my friend listened… I vented some more, cried some more, in the end gratefully thanked my friend for listening…then we both laughed at my “direct wishes upon my husband”… Sinful thoughts? Oh yea!!! But, I loved the fact that my friend did not judge me, listened & I could somehow move on… The point that gets lost is that we need a few good friends to ‘let it all out’ or we can explode…at least ~I~ was about to explode! Truth be told, my marriage is very shaky right now… But the point that you stated is dead on…our job is not to “bash” people mindlessly to every person we see… It is a process of learning & growing.
Praying for your marriage Moni! No judgement hear. All marriages go through times of shaky-ness, but when you come out on the other side stronger than before, it is all worth it. Faith in our marriages is another small way to give glory to God, right?
Sarina, thank you. Life is hard. Marriages are indeed tough. Right now my only faith is in God. Trusting He fills me with strength, either way it goes. Your prayers are indeed appreciated… We are meant to praise God together and pray for one another as such times as this…
All marriages do go through shakiness! Ask God to bless your marriage and work in your both with love and understand to get back on the same page. I was in the same exact boat as you and have prayed and studied the bible and searched and we are slowly getting back on track!
Thank you Kaily. Right now it is hard to ask for a blessing, rather strength to endure & move out of His way, so He takes over… Praying for you as well. Relationships are very tough!
I completely understand this. I have a hard time not bashing my husband sometimes and our marriage is so up and down. I like your point though that maybe having one friend we can confide in and not many people! Thanks for encouraging me! I pray you and your husband will continue to seek God and that He would help you!
Cody, thank you for the encouragement in return! Praying for you as well, and our journey together, even if standalone…
From James…
17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
A good barometer for when you are seeking discernment or advice!
I loved that verse as well and exactly as you said, a good barometer!
33 If only there were someone to mediate between us,
someone to bring us together,
Job’s prayer was answered in Jesus. Thanks be to God! Somedays I forget how blessed we are to have a mediator!
Wow yes thank you for pointing that out!
James 3:17 describes the speech of the godly/wise person, “pure, peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy”. That’s a high standard to attain. How often is my speech characterized by these things? And how often am I just trying to get attention, laughter, praise, etc by my quick responses and sarcastic humor.
wow, very convicting
Also…any SRT ladies know how to change my profile picture on here? I’m not sure why it is an old photo from several years ago.
Visit intensedebate.com and log in to change your picture. You may be using a “Gravatar”.
Kaitlin,
Thank you! 18 year old me must have created the Gravatar. I just made it as anonymous as possible. Ah!
I don’t even know how to get a picture at all! Oh well. Sometimes anonymity is comforting :)
Job 10:12 “You have granted me life and lovingkindness; And Your care has preserved my spirit”. I think Job crosses a line in today’s reading. His son was not the cause of his suffering but he is not speaking wisely. But even in the midst of his bitterness, he does come out with some nuggets of truth. He remembers his God has responded to him in kindness and mercy in the past
Some thoughts…
In Job, we do see what the reality of sin is in the OT. “Oh God, who can stand?” But, in connection with James’s discussion about the tongue, it is pretty evident that the spoken words of Job’s friends have shifted the atmosphere from trust in a righteous God in the middle of trial, to one of fear in the face of not knowing the condition of His heart. After Job heard their fearful “understanding,” he responded with his own (albeit a slightly different perspective).
Everyone thought they understood what was going on in Heaven and how it was being played out on earth.
Then James reminds us, even if we do feel like we’ve understood a piece of the puzzle, we should spend our lives LIVING out the truth, rather than letting our words fly without careful examination by Holy Spirit.
I’ll end this with the ever-theologically sound dialogue of Mr. Beaver in Narnia,
“Safe?” said Mr Beaver …”Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.”
Amen Lydia! I loved the parallel of Job and James today – we see the dangers of a loose tongue, both from Job and from his friends, and then James further lays out for us just how dangerous this tongue can be. I often struggle to hold my tongue, and know that these verses were picked especially for my heart today by our Lord and Savior!
hi Jess! these verses spoke to me as well.. though Job’s perspective of God’s goodness was clouded at this time, he never forgot the great power of the Almighty God, wha He can do… and how much He hates sin! how much we need a “mediator” because we cannot stand in the presence of a Holy God… grateful that Jesus came to save us!
“33 If only there were someone to mediate between us,
someone to bring us together,
34 someone to remove God’s rod from me,
so that his terror would frighten me no more.
35 Then I would speak up without fear of him,
but as it now stands with me, I cannot.”
Job sees the fearsome wrath of a perfectly righteous God against sin and cries out for a mediator, someone to “remove God’s rod.” Oh glory to God that Christ has come and bore the brunt of God’s judgment against sin. Like Job longed to do, I can come confidently into His presence and find only grace and mercy waiting for me there. What a wonderful Saviour!
I was about to share the same verses! I love how the Old Testament cries out for Jesus. Amazing!
Thank you for bringing this truth to light Jess… I hadn’t thought of it that way but it’s so amazing how God already had it arranged for Jesus to be our mediator. I’m so thankful too for His mercy! I sure don’t deserve it.
I hadn’t thought of it that way either! Thank you!
This is so true! Praise the Lord that we are no longer slaves to sin! Praise the Lord that Jesus came and reconciles us to God.
Job longs for that place of no return, Job 10:21. I get that. He held such hard thoughts of God. And I certainly have. Inward temptations and outward trials beyond belief. And James 3:6 shouts loud: The tongue can “set the whole course of one’s life on fire.” God is always intending for us to be renewed and redeemed and made holy, no matter our circumstances. Oh my soul, so grateful for a Mediator.
Yes and amen!
Why does every post always apply to me a that exact moment?! God truly knows me!! <3
I just felt the same way. Okay God, you’ve got my full attention! :)
The move of the Holy Spirit is amazing for sure! Studying together with one another (and for my part not knowing hardly anyone on here) yet growing together nevertheless, is pretty cool and quite profound! Great indication that God exists on this alone… To powerful to ignore…
I felt the exact same! I’ve been so negative with my attitude and words lately. I’m in grad school and it seems like everything is crashing down on me at once. I am so thankful for the reminder in both Job and James the importance of praising and respecting the Lord! As well as how vital it is to have life giving words! James made a great point in how our words can burn our lives down because they’ve been set on fire already by hell. Yikes! But it’s reality! Praying for you ladies!
Lindsay, I can totally relate, being a grad student as well! Keep your eyes on the Lord and soak up His Word. Praying for you!
Totally agree! Every Sunday I feel this way at church, and also daily as I read the word!
Exactly!