I recently came across a series of questions that I believe are an excellent summary of the teaching we’ve encountered in the book of James. I hope you will join me in prayerfully reflecting on these during the month of August. These will help further root the practical and straightforward lessons on spiritual maturity James intended for us to learn.
The author of these questions is Warren Wiersbe, a well-known and respected Bible teacher and preacher. Dr. Wiersbe taught for many years at the Moody Bible Institute and lived in the Edgebrook neighborhood for much of the time that he taught at Moody! Dr. Wiersbe concludes his commentary on the book of James with these words and these questions:
“This brings us to the end of our study of James. His emphasis has been spiritual maturity. This would be a good time for us to examine our own hearts to see how mature we really are. Here are a few questions to assist you:
- Am I becoming more and more patient in the testings of life?
- Do I play with temptation or resist it from the start?
- Do I find joy in obeying the Word of God, or do I merely study it and learn it?
- Are there any prejudices that shackle me?
- Am I able to control my tongue?
- Am I a peacemaker rather than a troublemaker? Do people come to me for spiritual wisdom?
- Am I a friend of God or a friend of the world?
- Do I make plans without considering the will of God?
- Am I selfish when it comes to money? Am I unfaithful in paying my bills?
- Do I naturally depend on prayer when I find myself in some kind of trouble?
- Am I the kind of person others seek for prayer support?
- What is my attitude toward the wandering brother or sister? Do I criticize and gossip, or do I seek to restore him or her in love?”
Pastor Greg