FIRST LOOKS: Here we take a look at the theme of the coming week.
MAKE ROOM!
At the pastoral conference in Michigan earlier this week the pastors spent some extended time dealing with a common concern: There is no room for God’s word in the lives of our people. Although we still have 24 hours in a day, they are all used up for something other than God’s word.
The issue arose when one pastor mentioned that his high school age members all had games or practices on Sunday morning. Others chimed in, pointing out that there was no time in the week that could be scheduled without interference. Youth activities, confirmation class, Bible class, and now finally Sunday school and church could not be scheduled without conflict from school, athletics, or social events.
In our text for this Sunday, James reminds us what a precious gift God’s word is to us because through it God has given us spiritual life and salvation. The life of the Christian has come from God through the word, and is dependent upon that word for endurance unto everlasting life.
For that reason, we not only push aside and get rid of the filth and evil that competes for a place in our lives, we also recognize the conflict between what is good and what is better – even essential!
Make room for Christ, who comes into your life through His word.