We recently started what some in Fusion are calling the Bible Challenge. We all got a pamphlet that lists out a reading plan to get us all started reading the Bible. The first pamphlet is called Letters 1.1. This started a week ago, but I haven’t been on yet to talk about what I’ve learned.
It’s funny how we are all reading the same books, but such different verses stick out to us. Here are the ones that have stuck out to me the most so far.
James 1:3 “You know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” Lately it’s been crazy in my life between work, the start of small groups, a lot of loss, and more personal issues. I keep wanting to just hide under my covers and make it all go away, but I realize that this is happening for a reason. I become a stronger person, and closer to God, the more trials I get through. Just keep swimming. . . just keep swimming. . .
James 1:13 “God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone.” Don’t know about you, but to me, that just shows how strong and loving God is. To not be tempted by evil would be hard for any human, but God, well, He’s God. He scoffs in the face of evil. 
And to know that He won’t tempt us to test us, that makes me feel relief. There is enough evil tempting us without our amazing Father tempting us too!
James 2:17 “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” We can talk and pray all we want, but if we don’t go out and spread God’s love by our actions, well, how is anyone gonna know how great He is? Note to self. . . more service and love to others. . .
James 4:8 “Come near to God and He will come near to you.” I have said it time and time again, unless we spend time with God, we won’t get closer to Him or grow in our faith. This is where our H.A.B.I.T.S. come in. In my bible, I love what the side note says. “Do you feel far from God? He hasn’t moved. He’s exactly the same.” It’s us, not Him, who pulled away.
James 5:15 “And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.” Although I know that, I feel I’m still lacking in that faith. I sometimes pray for things, then immediately think, “nah, He’s not going to make that happen or do that.” Hello. He’s God. He can do anything.
Tonight’s lesson was 1 John 2.
1 John 2:3 “We know that we have come to know Him if we obey His commands.” Time for some self evaluation. Have I been obeying his commands? I know I want to, but I need to make sure I do.
I’ll try to keep up with this more often. It’s a great way to reflect and learn.
One more thing, I went to a memorial service for one of our church family members who passed away. Looking around, I saw such love. I love my church family. I’m home there.
Love y’all.
