Daily Bible Reading — Sustained By God’s Word Of WisdomChikamu

September 16

Introduction

Among the New Testament books, the letter of James is considered a type of wisdom literature inasmuch as it contains practical advice on how people are to live. It begins like a letter written to Christians scattered throughout the Roman Empire (1:1), but its primary focus is to encourage moral behavior. In this first chapter, the writer admonishes his readers to ask God for wisdom, remain faithful when faced with trials, control anger, obey God, and control their tongues.

Today’s Scripture: James 1:27

What God the Father considers to be pure and genuine religion is this: to take care of orphans and widows in their suffering and to keep oneself from being corrupted by the world.

Today’s Reading 

James 1:1-27

Reflect

Why does James tell his readers that they should consider themselves fortunate when all kinds of trials come their way (verse 2)? What trials have you faced in your life? How did you handle them? Do you find James’s advice comforting? Why or why not? Why does he encourage his readers to pray for wisdom (verse 5)? Do you find any of the advice James gives to be relevant for your life today? 

Pray

Sovereign God, teach me to seek wisdom from you. Guide my actions this day and keep me strong in faith when facing trials and temptations so that I am not corrupted by the world. Teach me to submit to you and accept the Word you are planting in my heart today. Amen. 

Prayer Concern

Widows and orphans

Tomorrow’s Reading

James 2:1-26: James warns against prejudice and exhorts his readers to demonstrate their faith by their actions.