May 8
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JAMES 1
19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; 20 for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. 21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
– James 1:19-21
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JAMES 1 RECEIVE HUMBLY THE IMPLANTED WORD
A poem inspired by this psalm by ILMA
We were given by God a pair of ears so we can listen quickly
God also gave us one mouth so we can use it to speak truthfully
Anger is given to us to prod us to speak up for the voiceless
It is also a gift so we can defend all the oppressed and defenseless
So, let us all listen intently as we hear other’s predicaments
Let us put a guard on our mouths and our temperaments
For we are all made in God’s image; let us desire to know him
Only in his word and his laws can we be made aware of our sins
Without the Lord’s laws and words, we will definitely perish
Keep longing for God’s precept and guidance and you will flourish.
The Lord has called us to repent and turn from our sins
He gave us his word so we don’t have to follow all our whims
Scripture will expose our fallen nature and weaknesses
It also guides us to live holy lives and follow God’s righteousness
Receive humbly the implanted word and you will be transformed
It shows us all that is true and right so we can live the new creation
Hunger for the word of God and you will be guided to follow His will
Meditate on it daily and you will gain wisdom to stay away from sin
Confess your sins right away and repent as he disciplines you in his word
Do not ignore his admonishments for God disciplines whom he loves
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REFLECTION
• How is man’s anger different from God’s anger?
• Why does James warn us to speak slowly and be slow to react angrily?