“James”
(Please read the passage before, or after, reading the devotion.)
If God’s intention for us is to grow from new birth to new lives, how does He make that happen? I’m pretty sure that James has Jesus’ Parable of the Sower (Mark 4:1-20) at the back of his mind while writing this. Just as Jesus kept repeating “Let anyone with ears to hear listen,” James calls us to be attentive to God and His Word. This is more than having a regular devotional time, this is having an intentional listening ear! Receptivity to God always has two aspects. The first is preparation – having an attitude that is not defensive, does not pander to selfish passions, turns away from the “weeds and thorns” of our past inclinations. The second is response – humbly allowing God’s Word in us (cf.v.18) to grow in us (and thereby grow us) by our obedience.
Help me to be honest with myself, O Lord. I am so quick to speak, whether to defend myself, or to show I know more, but in so doing I do not listen for your Voice through your Word and your people. I excuse my anger as righteous indignation, forgetting that I am not all that righteous and besides, even You do not hold on to it forever. Forgive me Lord. I will be intentional in listening to you. May Your Word grow in me even as I obey you so that You Lord Jesus may fill my life. Amen.
