The Word - April 12, 2012 - GOD NEVER CHANGES

"Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father. He created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. So understand this my dear brothers and sisters; you must be quick to listen, slow to get anger. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. So, get rid of all the flith and evil in your lives and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for that word alone has the power to save your souls" (James 1:17-21).

James 1:19 begins with the phrase, "understand this," which refers back to verse 18. They had experienced the power of the Word of God in salvation, now James wants them to allow that same word to sanctify them. For that to occur, they must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and be slow to anger.

Someone has well said that either God's Word will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from God's Word. Apparently some of the saints were allowing sin ti keep them from receiving and understanding God's Word as they should. Because of this, God was allowing them to experience various trials so their faith and spiritual endurance would increase; but they obviously lacked wisdom and gave in to temptation and sin.

When James says, "be quick to listen" he means you must not disregard or fight against God's revealed word. Instead, when trials come your way, you are to ask God for wisdom and receive the counsel of His word with a willingness to obey it. Be quick to hear, pursue every opportunity to learn and be obedient to His directions.

Let the testimony of the psalmist be yours: Oh how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day. I will restrain my feet from every evil way, that I might keep your commandments. How sweet are your words to my taste; yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth."