Blessed Is The Man
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin Articles, uncategorized
In James 1:12, James speaks of a Christian man who endures temptation. This is the child of God who is targeted by Satan because he leans on the strength of the Lord to overcome the powerful road blocks that are put in his way as he strives to obey God.
The constant nagging voice of discouragement has stifled many well-intended servants of God. The world around the servant of God sees no earthly sense in the spiritual values we hold. What good is accomplished by serving God? What advantage does it give you to love your fellowman? Who cares what the Bible says about those things that pertain to salvation and making Heaven our goal?
Few there will be who think you are wise and doing the right thing. James simply says “endure.” Hold on, Hold out, Keep on, Keeping on. The sweet fruit of righteousness is on the top branches of the tree of life. Your sacrifice will lead to the place where your Lord will say, “well done good and faithful servant ….. enter into the joy of your Lord” (Matthew 25:21).
This is what James means by being approved. The success of the enduring child of God is seen in the picture he paints of the Lord’s bestowing the crown of life on those who prove their love for Him by staying faithful under duress. Stay put when you are tempted to run away. Say no unto those things that are wrong but tempt us by appearing harmless.
The fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil looked good for food, but carried the seeds of death and destruction. The word, “No” must mean “No” to evil. Jesus said to Peter on one occasion, “Get thee behind me Satan” (Mark 8:33 KJV).
We must not, we cannot temp God! (Matthew 4:7).
—Norman Hooten, via the Montana Street bulletin